Targeted damage to Optimum’s fiber-optic network in Georgetown caused a significant number of residents to lose internet service July 13, Optimum Communications Manager Kirstin Carroll said.

The team is working on repairs and anticipates service to be fully restored by early morning July 14, she said.

What happened: Optimum’s network near I-35 and Northwest Boulevard was targeted in an attempt to obtain copper to resell, Carroll said. However, she said their network does not contain copper, and the cords are worthless once cut.

Carroll said about one-third of Optimum’s customers in Georgetown, Jarrell, Sun City, Serenada, Weir, Santa Rita Ranch, Florence and Granger are impacted by the outage.

Optimum has filed a police report, and encourages Georgetown residents to report any evidence of damage to fiber-optic cables.

Grasons of Georgetown opened in late June, offering professional estate sale, downsizing and business liquidation services, according to a news release.

About the business: Owned by Kristen Carlson, the new home-based franchise will serve the Georgetown, North Austin, Sun City and Williamson County communities. Sydney Greenwalt, who owns and operates a senior care franchise, will lead day-to-day operations at Grasons of Georgetown.

In the release, Carlson and Greenwalt said they saw a need for trusted guidance outside of traditional senior care services. They hope to bring their experience to the families navigating downsizing, estate transitions and other major life transitions.

“What I've learned through working with seniors and families is that every object in a home has a story attached to it,” said Greenwalt. “Families are often making difficult decisions during emotional moments. We wanted to create a business that approaches those situations with professionalism, empathy and respect.

Check out the latest transportation project updates across the Austin metro.

Cedar Park to improve more neighborhood roads: Cedar Park City Council approved a change to the city’s contract with Lone Star Paving on June 25. The change order adds ten new streets to the project, with the existing asphalt removed and replaced with a new 2-inch asphalt surface.

Gattis School Road lane closures in effect through end of July for construction: A section of Gattis School Road between Via Sonoma Trail and High Country Boulevard will be reduced to one lane in each direction until the end of July. The closure will facilitate installation of three waterline crossings.

Roadway plans move forward as Dog's Head site prepped for major industrial project: Preparations for the first major addition to the recently annexed Dog's Head are underway, while local leaders ready to adopt a long-term public financing plan for upgrades across the more than 4-square-mile East Austin megasite. A range of mixed-use development is possible after city officials' initial vote for a long-term deal this spring. 

Looking to get away this summer without going too far? Check out some places to plan a staycation throughout the Austin area. 

Bastrop
Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa: The ranch-style resort offers dining, golf, a water park, spa and event spaces.

Dripping Springs
The Yurtopian: The Hill Country resort offers glamping in Mongolian-inspired yurts with upscale amenities and scenic views.

Georgetown
San Gabriel House: The historic bed-and-breakfast showcases its 20th-century charm with the original pine floors and leaded-glass front door.

Liberty Hill
River Ranch Inn: The self-proclaimed “undecidedly and beautifully offbeat” boutique hotel in Liberty Hill offers guests swimming, kayaking, fishing and stargazing.

North Central Austin
Commodore Perry Estate: The venue features European-style architecture and decor, a pool, restaurant, on-site entertainment and event spaces.

Round Rock
The Ruby Hotel & Bar: The hotel offers a pool, scenic views and private event spaces near the historic downtown, which features an abundance of shopping and dining,