Latest News
Downtown Austin Community Court celebrates quarter-century milestone
By Austin Journal | Oct 1, 2024
On October 1, 2024, the Downtown Austin Community Court (DACC) marked its 25th anniversary of service to the Austin community. Since October 2015, DACC has connected over 600 people to long-term housing.
Austin residents urged to consider purchasing flood insurance
By Austin Journal | Oct 1, 2024
Homeowners, renters, and small businesses in Austin are encouraged to consider flood insurance due to the potential for flooding outside of mapped floodplains and high-risk areas. The City of Austin's participation in the National Flood Insurance Program allows residents to access federally-backed flood insurance, with most policies eligible for a 25 percent discount upon renewal. The average annual policy cost in Austin is $670, with lower risk policies available at reduced rates.
Austin police seek public help locating suspect in theft and forgery cases
By Austin Journal | Sep 30, 2024
The Austin Police Department (APD) is seeking the public's assistance in locating Juan Antonio Vazquez Jr., a 24-year-old suspect involved in multiple theft and forgery cases. These incidents occurred between September 19, 2022, and June 7, 2024.
Ken Wingert appointed chief advocacy officer for NAHB
By Austin Journal | Sep 30, 2024
The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) has announced the appointment of Ken Wingert as its new chief advocacy officer. Wingert, a seasoned government affairs professional with over 20 years of experience in policy and management, will now lead the association's various advocacy efforts.
Pease Park Conservancy announces fall volunteer events and celebrations
By Austin Journal | Sep 30, 2024
Fall has arrived, and Halloween is approaching. Pease Park Conservancy (PPC) encourages volunteers to participate in park activities dressed in park-inspired costumes that allow for easy movement.
NAHB's Leadership Grant helps small businesses attend major industry events
By Austin Journal | Sep 30, 2024
NAHB’s annual Leadership Grant significantly impacted Jennie Wunderlich's business, a fourth-generation owner who attended the 2024 International Builders’ Show (IBS) for the first time.
Travis County commissioners unanimously approve FY 2025 budget for Central Health
By Austin Journal | Sep 27, 2024
Central Health announced that the Travis County Commissioners Court has voted unanimously to approve its fiscal year (FY) 2025 budget and tax rate on September 24.
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport begins major midfield taxiway construction
By Austin Journal | Sep 27, 2024
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) has commenced the construction of two new concrete parallel midfield taxiways, a significant part of its planned 20+ gate concourse expansion. The project aims to enhance aircraft movement by linking the runways, the Barbara Jordan Terminal, and the future Concourse B. Completion is expected in 2027.
Tips for festivalgoers to enjoy safely
By Austin Journal | Sep 27, 2024
Festivalgoers are encouraged to follow several tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Austin City Council approves new business expansion programs
By Austin Journal | Sep 27, 2024
The Austin City Council has approved updates and new initiatives to support local business growth, affordable commercial spaces, and the preservation of cultural districts. These efforts include updates to the Business Expansion Program and the introduction of two new initiatives: the Place-Based Enhancement Program and the Economic and Cultural District Framework Policy. These initiatives aim to modernize the city’s approach to fostering economic growth, preserving cultural identity, and supporting equitable access to commercial spaces and resources.
NAHB announces livestreams for key fall leadership meetings
By Austin Journal | Sep 27, 2024
NAHB leadership, including committee and council members, will gather from October 1 to 3 for the 2024 Fall Leadership Meeting in San Antonio. Members and HBA staff not attending can view livestreams of key meetings throughout the week.
NAHB plans workshop to help new members at fall leadership meeting
By Austin Journal | Sep 27, 2024
Many of the National Association of Home Builders' (NAHB) long-time members highlight the benefits of attending the association’s leadership meetings. These gatherings help shape NAHB’s policies and initiatives on key industry issues, while also providing opportunities for networking and business development.
Indoor air quality's vital role in home construction highlighted
By Austin Journal | Sep 27, 2024
Indoor air quality is a critical factor in home construction, often overlooked despite its significant impact on health. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) states that indoor air can be up to five times more polluted than outdoor air. This pollution contributes to severe health issues, with the World Health Organization reporting 3.8 million premature deaths annually due to household air pollution.
NAHB seeks member input on OSHA's proposed federal heat standard
By Austin Journal | Sep 26, 2024
On August 30, OSHA published a proposed rule to establish the first federal standard for preventing heat-related injuries and illnesses for both indoor and outdoor work settings. NAHB has prepared an advocacy video and summary of the proposal with information on employer requirements.
Congress extends government funding and NFIP authorization through Dec. 20
By Austin Journal | Sep 26, 2024
Congress has approved legislation to extend current federal government funding levels through December 20. This move also extends the authorization of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) until the same date.
Homicide investigation underway after deaths of two individuals on Diehl Trail
By Austin Journal | Sep 26, 2024
On Tuesday, September 24, 2024, at approximately 12:16 p.m., Austin 9-1-1 received a call from a family member requesting a welfare check on her niece and her niece’s husband. The complainant stated she had not been in contact with either of them in the past 24 hours. At approximately 1:13 p.m., the complainant called back and stated she was on scene and that the couple’s vehicle was parked outside but there was no answer at the door.
Motorcyclist killed in collision with bus on East Koenig Lane
By Austin Journal | Sep 26, 2024
On Tuesday, September 24, 2024, at approximately 7:40 a.m., officers from the Austin Police Department (APD) responded to a collision involving a Capital Metro bus and a motorcycle in the 100 block of East Koenig Lane. The motorcyclist, identified as Joshua Lee-Michael Babb, was pronounced deceased at the scene. A passenger on the bus sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to the hospital.
Austin hosts final emergency preparedness training session of 2024
By Austin Journal | Sep 26, 2024
The City of Austin Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM) is organizing an emergency preparedness classroom training. This two-hour session is developed in collaboration with Austin Watershed Protection, Austin Fire Department, Austin-Travis County Emergency Medical Services, Ascension Seton, and Go Austin/Vamos Austin (GAVA).
ECHO announces date for Austin's biannual homeless count
By Austin Journal | Sep 26, 2024
The Ending Community Homelessness Coalition (ECHO) has announced that Austin/Travis County’s biannual Point in Time (PIT) Count will occur on the night of January 25, 2025. The announcement marks the beginning of a campaign to recruit at least 1,200 volunteers for the one-night survey aimed at understanding homelessness in the area.
Multifamily builders express concerns over new federal energy code mandates
By Austin Journal | Sep 26, 2024
Many multifamily housing developers are expressing concern over the Biden administration's plans to mandate that all new homes meet the latest energy codes as a condition for certain federal home loan programs, according to a recent survey.