Williamson County will work with local water providers to explore long-term water supply solutions, including an engineering study that will evaluate regional needs for water.

County commissioners approved $500,000 for the study at their Nov. 25 meeting.

The setup: Although the county is not a water provider, County Judge Steve Snell said officials hope to guide cities and utilities in coordinating water procurement, infrastructure planning and conservation efforts through the new study and coalition.

The newly formed Williamson County Water Group includes representatives from the county and major water providers like the cities of Round Rock, Leander, Cedar Park, Georgetown and the Brazos River Authority.

Potential solutions could involve groundwater and surface water development, water reuse, upgrades to aging infrastructure, and a broad conservation plan, Snell said.

What's next: The water study is anticipated to be conducted in April.

The latest branch of Texas Roadhouse held its soft opening in Leander on Nov. 24.

The details: The restaurant chain is known for its ribs, steaks, burgers, fried chicken and homemade sides. The franchise has more than 700 branches worldwide.

• Opening in late November
• 1416 Sparkle Lane, Leander

Texas State University will purchase a 128 acre tract of property in San Marcos as part of a conservation effort around Sink Creek.

What you need to know: The Texas State University System Board of Regents approved the land purchase for $4.5 million Nov. 20, allowing the university to take ownership of an ecologically sensitive area and continue efforts to preserve it. Acquiring the property is part of a commitment to environmental stewardship on behalf of Texas State University, per a release shared by the system.

The details: The property is located northeast of Spring Lake and Spring Meadows, adjacent to the Spring Lake Natural Area, a city of San Marcos-owned park protected for several environmental features. 

What they're saying: Being located within the Sink Creek Watershed provides an opportunity for students to further study local ecology, said Robert Mace, director of The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment.

So far in 2025, Community Impact has covered two election cycles, major transportation updates, development news and local businesses throughout the greater Austin area.

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