Latest News from Austin Journal

AUSTIN, Texas — Austin Public Health (APH) continues mosquito abatement, education, and outreach efforts in the 78744 zip code as a second pool has tested positive for West Nile virus.

Water main repair near Davis Lane Pump Station progresses without service interruptions

Austin Water reports progress in repairing a leaking water main near the Davis Lane pump station, which services Southwest Austin. Currently, there are no concerns that would prevent repairs from being completed safely overnight, but work continues and completion is based on field conditions.

Austin's improved FEMA rating leads to increased flood insurance discounts

On Wednesday, May 29, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) informed the City of Austin that it was upgrading the city's score in the Community Rating System from a six to a five. This change means that a 25 percent discount will be available for most flood insurance policies in Austin issued or renewed on or after October 1, 2024. Previously, the highest discount available to Austin residents was 20 percent.

Austin's seasonal summer pools set to open starting June 10

Six city-wide summer pools and a temporary Barton Springs Pool bathhouse will open on Monday, June 10, as Austin’s summer season begins. The locations opening across Austin include Civitan, Kennemer, Metz, Parque Zaragoza, Stacy Wading, and West Austin pools.

Blues on the Green returns: Event details and attendee guidelines

Austin City Limits Radio is set to host the 33rd Blues on the Green concert series starting Tuesday, June 11, in collaboration with the City of Austin. Attendees planning to visit Zilker Park for the event are advised to review guidance from Austin Transportation and Public Works (TPW) and Austin Parks and Recreation (PARD), as ongoing projects around the park will affect parking availability and travel time.

Traces of H5N1 detected in Austin-Travis County wastewater; public risk remains low

Austin, TEXAS – Austin Public Health (APH) has detected traces of Influenza A (H5N1), commonly known as Bird Flu, in the local wastewater through its continuous monitoring efforts. No human cases have been reported locally, and the current risk to the public remains low.

Inside Austin-Bergstrom: A day in airside operations

In a behind-the-scenes look at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS), Katlyn Fohn, an Airside Operations Supervisor, sheds light on the crucial role her team plays in ensuring safety and efficiency.

Saison North grand opening adds more affordable housing units in Austin

AUSTIN, TX – The City of Austin Housing Department celebrated the grand opening of Saison North in District 7 at 10010 N Capital of Texas Highway. In partnership with O-SDA Industries, Saigebrook Development, and Hunt Capital Partners, the five-story, elevator-serviced, mixed-income housing development includes 116 units. The new community expands affordable housing opportunities in Austin, with 70% of the units reserved for households earning at or below 60% Median Family Income (MFI) and 30% available at market rate.

Austin releases critical climate information ahead of summer 2024

The City of Austin has released a series of documents to help the community and city departments prepare for the impacts of rising temperatures as summer approaches. These documents include updated Climate Projections for the Austin area, the 2024 Summer Outlook, and the Heat Resilience Playbook.

Austin ISD releases spring 2024 STAAR test scores

Austin ISD students participated in the STAAR tests this past spring, which serve as an important tool to gauge their learning progress. These assessments help schools and teachers identify areas where students may need additional support. By analyzing STAAR results alongside other performance data, educators are better equipped to develop tailored learning plans that will help students succeed in the upcoming school year.

Austin athlete promotes plant-based lifestyle through running group

On June 5th, Global Running Day, Troy Alvarado was introduced as the newest Net-Zero Hero. Alvarado, a blue belt in jiu-jitsu and marathon runner, has committed to a plant-based diet. He participates in Plant Powered Athlete ATX’s gatherings most Sunday mornings where the group meets for a walk or run followed by a meal at a local vegan restaurant.

Fútbol juvenil promueve salud física e inclusión social

El fútbol se ha consolidado como uno de los deportes juveniles más populares en Estados Unidos, con millones de niños participando en ligas y torneos organizados. Este deporte no solo promueve la salud y la aptitud física, sino que también inculca valiosas habilidades para la vida, como la disciplina, la perseverancia y la resiliencia. Además, reúne a personas de diversos orígenes, fomentando la inclusión, la comprensión y el respeto mutuo.

Constructing Connections highlights street and bridge district maintenance

The Constructing Connections video series is dedicated to highlighting field teams within the Transportation and Public Works Department. This month, the series focuses on the District Maintenance team within the Street and Bridge Operations division. When a 3-1-1 call is made, this team responds to make necessary repairs to help ensure safe and convenient commutes for Austinites.

Parking enforcement team featured in Constructing Connections video series

The Constructing Connections video series is dedicated to highlighting the field teams within the Transportation and Public Works Department. This month's highlight is the Parking Enforcement team within the Parking Enterprise division.

Bottled water distribution set for Bowie High School amid Southwest Austin pipeline repair

A bottled water distribution point will be set up for Southwest area customers on Friday, June 7, from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m., at Bowie High School, 4103 W. Slaughter Lane. Austin Water is making this available to the community to ensure the affected customers have access to free cases of bottled water for essential uses. This will further assist with the Southwest area community’s efforts to conserve and help with water availability should a service disruption occur during the waterline repair.

Pedestrian dies after hit-and-run on North US Highway 183 NB

On Tuesday, June 4, 2024, at approximately 5:59 a.m., Austin Police Department (APD) officers responded to a crash between a vehicle and a pedestrian in the 13600 block of North US Highway 183 NB. The vehicle involved left the scene. The pedestrian, an unidentified female, was transported to a local hospital where she was later pronounced deceased.

Travis County CDBG seeks public input on substantial plan amendments

Travis County CDBG invites public comments on the proposed PY19-23 Consolidated Plan and PY19 Action Plan Substantial Amendments #4. The invitation is available in both English and Spanish (español). Comments will be accepted for 30 days, starting June 19, 2024, at 8:00 a.m. and ending on July 19, 2024, at 5:00 p.m., or by participating in a public hearing on July 16, 2024, at 9:00 a.m.

Octapharma opens first plasma donation center in Austin

Octapharma, a leading global plasma collection and human protein product manufacturer, is set to open its first location in Austin. The grand opening celebration will take place on Thursday, June 13 at 9:30 a.m., featuring a ribbon-cutting ceremony. This new center joins Octapharma's network of over 175 centers across 34 states, including 22 others in Texas.

Austin Police Department to host inaugural Autism Sensory Fair

On Saturday, June 8, 2024, the Austin Police Department (APD), in collaboration with the Austin Fire Department (AFD), Austin-Travis County EMS (ATCEMS), and other partners, will host the Inaugural Autism Sensory Fair.

Youth soccer promotes health benefits and essential life skills