Bastrop officials are considering new rules to increase foot traffic downtown by requiring at least 60% of street-facing ground-floor storefronts to be used for shops, restaurants and other walk-in businesses.

Some context: Discover Bastrop Director Michaela Joyce said several hundred people responded to a city survey this summer, with an overwhelming number calling for more retail and restaurants downtown.

What else? The proposal would also impose restrictions on some alcohol-related businesses, including those that make at least 75% of their revenue from alcohol.

Looking ahead: Residents can weigh in during an Oct. 29 Planning and Zoning Commission public hearing at 6 p.m. at Bastrop City Hall, 1311 Chestnut St.

Black & White Interiors owner Desiree Laux is preparing to transform her downtown Bastrop showroom and retail storefront into a curated antique vendor co-op.

What happened: Laux told Community Impact that low sales have made the home decor and gift shop’s current retail model unsustainable.

“Sales are almost nothing, and I am using personal funds to support the business, and I can’t do it any longer,” Laux said.

She said she launched a liquidation sale Oct. 15, with most merchandise—including Christmas inventory—discounted.

What’s next: Once enough inventory has sold, Laux plans to transform the storefront into a curated antique vendor co-op, with individual vendors renting booths or display spaces to sell high-quality, curated antiques.

• Closing TBD

• 1015 Main St., Bastrop

Check out some of the most-read stories from the Austin area Oct. 12-16.

1. Williamson County breaks ground on new phase of Ronald Reagan Boulevard

2. Miniature golf, live music returning to former Back 9 Bar space

3. From major store openings to closings: Check out 11 San Marcos business updates

4. Check out the latest Loop 360 updates

5. Patel Brothers grocery store now open in Cedar Park

6. Austin, UT announce deal to preserve Muny

Ronald McDonald House Central Texas has opened a new Family Kitchen and four additional guest rooms at its facility at Dell Children’s Medical Center in Mueller, according to its Oct. 12 newsletter.

What’s new: The renovation began in spring 2026, a Ronald McDonald House representative said. Completed work includes:

• A second-floor Family Kitchen with four cooking stations

• Four new bedrooms, bringing the house to 34 rooms, up from 30

• Refreshed shared spaces, including the dining room, restrooms and laundry rooms

Work on the first-floor commercial kitchen is expected to finish later this year, the representative said.

Lend a hand: Groups can register via email to cook a meal through Meals from the Heart, which is now scheduling holiday dates. The nonprofit keeps a wish list of pantry and household items.