Latest News from Austin Journal

We hosted our July Area Business Connections event on July 29th at the Boy Scouts of America's Austin Headquarters. Andy Loughnane, President of Austin FC, and JJ Gottsch, CEO of the PBR Austin Gamblers, sat down with Drew Hays, the Austin Sports Commission Executive Director, to discuss professional sports in Austin.

Astronomers use AI to discover polluted white dwarf stars consuming planets

Astronomers have recently identified hundreds of "polluted" white dwarf stars in the Milky Way, which are actively consuming planets in their orbit. These stars provide valuable insights into the interiors of these distant planets but are notoriously difficult to find.

UT Austin researchers use AI tool for safer antibiotics

Researchers at The University of Texas at Austin have leveraged artificial intelligence to develop a new antibiotic showing promise in animal trials. Published today in Nature Biomedical Engineering, the study details how scientists used a large language model (LLM) to engineer a previously toxic bacteria-killing drug to be safe for human use.

Pedestrian killed in hit-and-run on West William Cannon Drive

On Tuesday, July 30, 2024, at approximately 12:52 a.m., Austin Police Department (APD) officers responded to a crash between a vehicle and a pedestrian in the 1000 block of West William Cannon Drive. The pedestrian was transported to a local hospital where he was later pronounced deceased. The vehicle did not stop and left the scene.

Austin Airport blends local flavor into its concession offerings

By Austin Journal | Jul 30, 2024

Travelers passing through Austin Airport may have noticed the unique blend of local businesses offering food, beverages, and retail products. These establishments are part of the airport's concession program, designed to provide passengers with a taste of Austin's distinctive culture.

Arson suspect arrested after attempted apartment fire in Austin

By Austin Journal | Jul 30, 2024

The Austin Police Department (APD) responded to a 9-1-1 call regarding a man damaging walls and attempting to light an apartment on fire in the 1700 block of Burton Drive on Friday, July 26, 2024, at 3:56 p.m. Upon arrival, officers noted a burnt smell in the residence and the presence of singed paper. Officers spoke with a witness who confirmed the initial report of a man intentionally lighting a fire inside the residence. APD officers detained the suspect and notified the Austin Fire Department (AFD) Arson Division.

City of Austin launches “Building Austin” series highlighting infrastructure developments

The City of Austin Capital Delivery Services (CDS) has announced the launch of "Building Austin," a quarterly, traveling informational series designed to keep residents updated on major city infrastructure projects. CDS is responsible for managing over $10 billion in construction that supports Austin's rapidly growing population, and this series aims to inform the public about these significant developments.

American Airlines announces nonstop flights from Austin to Aspen

Aspen, Colorado, is emerging as a prime winter destination for those seeking upscale dining, high-end shopping, and luxurious amenities. The city offers a range of activities including snowshoeing, snow biking, skiing, tubing, and more.

Austin entrepreneur transforms wine industry with sustainable practices

Sammy Lam, known as "the Wine Cowboy," is working to make Austin net-zero by transforming the carbon footprint of the wine industry. As the founder of Wanderlust Wine Co., the world's largest on-tap winery, and a board member of the Texas Wine & Grape Growers Association, Lam's commitment to sustainability has earned his business a place in the Austin Green Business Leaders program at the Platinum Level.

Austin expands its infrastructure to support growing interest in soccer

The Department of Parks and Recreation offers opportunities for soccer enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels. From structured youth programs at community recreation centers that emphasize skill development and teamwork to adult leagues and tournaments in collaboration with local organizations, the City of Austin helps keep soccer accessible and appealing for Austin residents. The soccer programs promote physical activity and foster a sense of community among participants.

New mixed-use development brings affordable housing options to East Austin

The City of Austin Housing Department has announced the groundbreaking of The Ivory, a new affordable housing development in East Austin. Located at 1309 Chicon Street in District 1, The Ivory is notable for being Austin's first carless community, with all its electric needs met through on-site solar power. The project includes three commercial condos and 53 residential condos, with 40 units designated for households earning at or below 70% Median Family Income (MFI) and the remaining 13 units available at market rate.

City of Austin City Council met May 28

By Angelica Saylo Pilo | Jul 28, 2024

City of Austin City Council met Tuesday, May 28

City of Austin City Council will meet Aug. 1

By Angelica Saylo Pilo | Jul 28, 2024

City of Austin City Council will meet at 10 a.m., Thursday, Aug. 1

City of Austin City Council will meet July 30

By Angelica Saylo Pilo | Jul 28, 2024

City of Austin City Council will meet at 10 a.m., Tuesday, July 30

Austin city manager delays decision on new police chief

Austin City Manager T.C. Broadnax has provided an update on the search for a new Chief of Police, emphasizing the importance of the position and the need for thorough consideration.

Austin police investigate fatal shooting on Kelton Drive

On Tuesday, June 25, 2024, at approximately 11 a.m., Austin Police Department (APD) officers responded to a call regarding a shooting in the 12200 block of Kelton Drive. The caller reported that a family member had been shot. Austin-Travis County Emergency Medical Services (A/TCEMS) arrived on the scene and found the victim, identified as Julian Hernandez, on a bed in the bedroom. Life-saving measures were attempted before Julian was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced deceased at 12:45 p.m.

Austin police investigate fatal stabbing linked to stolen vehicle incident

On July 24, 2024, at approximately 10:29 a.m., Austin Police Department (APD) officers responded to a Shoot/Stab Hotshot call at 2101 Burton Drive. The caller reported that someone had been stabbed. Upon arrival, officers and Austin-Travis County Emergency Medical Services (A/CTEMS) located an individual with injuries consistent with a stab wound. Despite life-saving efforts, the victim was pronounced deceased at the scene. He was later identified as Javier Antonio Navarro Quesada.

Austin celebrates park month with focus on community belonging

As Park and Recreation Month draws to a close, the Parks and Recreation Department, in collaboration with the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), is encouraging the Austin community to reflect on the significance of the city's parks, trails, and public spaces. The City of Austin boasts 355 parks, over 20,000 acres of green space, 269 miles of trails, as well as numerous public centers and cultural spaces.

Austin police seek public help in locating hit-and-run suspect