ATX-NCA: Impact 10/17/2025

Officials are readying for the impending expansion of flying vehicle use, and reviewing how the city will be able to regulate the new mode of transportation in Austin's skies.

The details: Plans for the rollout of electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing, or eVTOL, aircraft are already in the works in other major cities, and Austin should prepare sooner than later for local impacts in the near future, Assistant City Manager Mike Rogers told City Council. Austin leaders should start considering eVTOLs' likely impacts on Austin's zoning, utilities, transportation networks and public safety while new regulations between local, state and federal governments are decided, he said.

Following a June executive order from President Donald Trump, the Federal Aviation Administration is working to launch an eVTOL pilot program that could involve local governments like Austin. Rogers said it remains to be seen how the city could get involved with that work or other partnerships with aircraft companies.

A new bar inspired by historic English pubs and old Western saloons opened at The Driskill in early October, paying tribute to the hotel’s 140-year history.

On the menu: The Victorian serves classic cocktails, heritage whiskeys and a range of beers alongside Texas-inspired pub fare, including burgers, homemade beef jerky, pretzel rolls, rattlesnake bites and fish and chips.

A closer look: The two-story bar’s mezzanine level features pool and card tables overlooking a mahogany bar with plush lounge seating.

The space formerly served as the KTBC broadcast studios of then-Senator and future President Lyndon B. Johnson and Lady Bird Johnson as well as a bank, a barbershop and a spa, according to MML Hospitality information.

• 604 Brazos St., Austin

For the last 25 years, at least one person has died on Texas roads every day, according to TxDOT. Austin’s Vision Zero program—adopted in 2015 to eliminate traffic deaths and serious injuries—shows targeted street redesigns are saving lives.

The big picture: Since launching the initiative, Austin has invested more than $1.3 billion through three voter-approved mobility bonds, funding hundreds of safety projects including intersection upgrades, pedestrian crossings and protected bike lanes. City data shows serious injuries dropped to their lowest level in 2024, while intersection projects alone have reduced severe crashes by 38% on average.

Still, fatalities remain “stubbornly high,” particularly on state-managed roads that account for most deadly crashes. The Vision Zero 10-year report also notes ongoing equity concerns, with Black and low-income Austinites disproportionately affected.

The outlook: Officials say Austin’s next challenge is sustaining funding and expanding partnerships with TxDOT as the city works toward its goal of zero traffic deaths.

Simon Madera, the brain behind La Holly and Taco Flats, is bringing Churchrow Tejas BBQ to Austin.

The specifics: The restaurant is moving into the space previously occupied by Black Gold Craft Meats & Cocktails. The concept will be led by pitmaster Miguel Vidal and will showcase barbecue with a Tejano twist, highlighting Madera and Vidal’s heritage.

The duo met as students at St. Edward’s University and kept in touch after diving into the dining industry. Vidal is joining the team after a two-year hiatus with barbecue experience ranging back to 2013 when he first joined the industry.

“Miguel and I have known each other for a long time and I’m excited to get him back in the game,” Madera said. “I used to crave his food back in the day when his food truck was at Star Bar on West Sixth. He really knows the essence of cooking the Mexican American food I love and respect.”

1521 W. Anderson Lane, Austin