ATX-CPF: Impact 8/15/2025

Cedar Park City Council voted Aug. 7 at a special meeting to authorize the establishment of the Central Texas Spaceport Development Corporation in partnership with Williamson County.

The corporation will be a nonprofit focused on infrastructure and development in specialized launching and landing facilities for spacecraft, rockets and satellites, according to agenda documents.

What you need to know: There are currently five other SDCs, which are eligible to apply for state and federal grants to support the spaceport industry, in Texas.

Cedar Park is home to Firefly Aerospace, which operated the first commercial mission to successfully land on the moon earlier in 2025. Since then, the company has secured hundreds of millions of dollars toward a future lunar landing and other projects.

What they’re saying: Cedar Park has intentionally created an aerospace-friendly environment, said Daniel Sousa, assistant director of communications and engagement for the city.

Whether you're looking to get in shape, get a check-up or get a meal, there are plenty of new businesses, restaurants and services now open or coming soon to Cedar Park. 

Now open: The 50 Yardline Sports Training: Owner Wali Muhammed said the facility specializes in training for speed and agility. The age range for current participants is 6-18. The business offers small group training sessions, one-on-one sessions, performance testing and more.

• Opened July 20

• 10921 E. Crystal Falls Parkway, Ste. 604, Leander

• www.meetmeatthe50.com

Bee Organized: The mobile organizing business based out of Leander is now offering its services to the Austin area. Owned by Christina Kjar, the business offers assistance with organizing homes and businesses, moving management, concierge services and more.

• Opened June 30

• www.beeorganized.com/northwest-austin
  

The Texas Senate advanced 11 bills Aug. 12, including a plan to redraw the state’s congressional districts and three measures aimed at better preparing communities for floods and other natural disasters.

The overview: The bills face an unclear future in the Texas House, which has been at a standstill since dozens of Democrats traveled to Illinois and other states Aug. 3 to stall a planned vote on the proposed congressional map. The 150-member House cannot refer bills to committees or vote on legislation without at least 100 members present.

Stay tuned: If House Democrats do not return, state leaders said the current special legislative session will end Aug. 15. Gov. Greg Abbott said he would “immediately” call another legislative overtime with a potentially expanded agenda.

Read the full story from State Reporter Hannah Norton.