Three major SH 71 projects in Bastrop County are moving forward, with one nearing the bidding stage, another in final design and a third under construction.

Here’s what drivers should know about each project.

Upcoming

1. Pope Bend Road improvements ($61.65 million): TxDOT will construct an overpass at Pope Bend Road, one-way frontage roads and expanded bicycle and pedestrian accommodations. As of Oct. 21, the project had completed pre-bidding requirements, with bids scheduled to open Jan. 6, 2027.

2. FM 1209 upgrades ($102 million): TxDOT will construct an overpass at FM 1209, new frontage roads and expanded bicycle and pedestrian accommodations. The project is in final design, right-of-way acquisition and utility adjustment, with bidding anticipated in 2030.

Ongoing

3. Tucker Hill enhancements ($58.5 million): TxDOT is constructing an overpass at Tucker Hill Lane, one-way frontage roads and bicycle and pedestrian improvements. Crews are installing bridge beams, constructing culverts and working on the westbound frontage road, with completion expected in fall 2028.

Support Bastrop’s local music scene with a night out at the Bastrop Live Music Foundation fall fundraiser.

The details: The family-friendly event will feature live music from Bastrop-area artists, food, a costume contest and a raffle. Prizes include musical instruments, downtown dining and entertainment packages, spa services and river adventures.

Why it matters: As previously reported, the nonprofit hopes to raise $15,000-$20,000 for next year’s student mentorship program.

How to help: Those unable to attend can still support the effort with a monetary donation on the foundation's website.

• Oct. 23, 7-11 p.m.

• Free (admission)

• 602 Brewing Co., 919 Main St., Bastrop

Texas environmental regulators have continued processing certain data center permits in the month since Gov. Greg Abbott ordered a permitting pause, according to a new report from FracTracker, an oil and gas watchdog group.

The details: Abbott directed the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality last month to "halt all permits sought by data centers" while the Electric Reliability Council of Texas audits proposed projects.

Yet as of Oct. 16, the TCEQ had moved at least 35 data center-related applications forward, per an analysis of TCEQ records.

Notable quote: "No permits have been approved," Andrew Mahaleris, the governor's press secretary, said Oct. 20. "In line with the governor’s directive, TCEQ has not taken and will not take any proactive actions related to the approval of data center permits."

Zooming in: The agency has issued public notices for three data center projects since Abbott ordered the pause Sept. 21. It also approved stormwater coverage, certified air emissions limits or assigned engineers to other projects.

"These actions do not signal an agency trying to pause," FracTracker said in the report.