ATX-SWA: Impact 10/22/2025

A state-led homeless encampment clearing operation in Austin has seen dozens of people relocated or arrested, Gov. Greg Abbott said, while city officials pushed back on Texas' "show of force" and a lack of local coordination.

The details: The state initiative is taking place under both local and state law that bans camping in public and has involved the Texas Department of Public Safety, Texas Department of Transportation, Texas State Guard and Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

While state leaders promoted the results of their efforts so far, city leaders said the operation expanded without warning this week. They criticized a lack of notice from the state, said the response ended up duplicating Austin's own encampment management work, and worried it won't result in more residents permanently moving off the streets.

The Texas operation was announced as the city advances its own, separate, encampment and resource program ahead of the winter season and anticipated severe weather.

Koko’s Bavarian Beer Hall has officially opened in South Austin with 7,000 square feet filled with food and beverages accompanied by Bavarian tradition and Texas hospitality.

The details: The business’s dining options include wings, mozzarella sticks, whitefish dip, Bavarian pretzel, Belgian-style fries and more. For those looking for an alcoholic beverage, the drink program at the space includes draft beer, frozen cocktails, specialty cocktails, canned drinks and wine.

The impact: The beer hall is the company’s only solo location. Apart from the flagship, individuals can find the business at stadiums, arenas and concert venues across the world.

• 3003 S. Lamar Blvd., Austin

Local advocates and city leaders promoted the launch of Amplify Home, a new initiative to support Austin's thousands of homeless children and families this fall.

The details: The I Live Here I Give Here campaign marked Oct. 21 as a day of action against family homelessness with local events, volunteer opportunities and a fundraising push. Officials said renewed focus on the issue is needed given that, within Austin ISD alone, an estimated 2,500 children across more than 1,100 families are currently growing up without a home.

"It is a humanitarian crisis when we have that many children not being able to be children because they’re living unhoused," Mayor Kirk Watson said.

More information about the campaign is available online.

Travis County approved a new deal ensuring the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix Oct. 16 which will now continue at Circuit of the Americas through 2034.

The big picture: The adrenaline-fueled event draws more than 430,000 fans annually—nearly 70% from out of state—and generates over $1 billion in economic activity across Travis County each October, according to county documents.

By endorsing the race, the county allows organizers to apply for state funding through the governor’s major events program, which helps cover event costs but does not include any property tax breaks for COTA. Since debuting in Austin in 2012, Formula 1 has generated more than $10 billion regionally.

Southwest Austin and Dripping Springs homes spent slightly less time on the market in September 2025 compared to September 2024, according to Unlock MLS data.

The details: Homes spent an average of 23.38% less days on the market year over year. Slightly more homes sold year over year, up by 12% across the market.