Liberty Hill City Council approved a contract for roughly $1.5 million with developer Griffin Swinerton to conduct preliminary planning of the city’s Downtown District project.

Some context: The contract is part of a years-long effort to revitalize downtown, with the goal of transforming it into a walkable destination for residents to gather.

City Council approved the Liberty Hill Downtown Master Plan in 2024. That master plan guides the city’s efforts downtown.

The details: The city is hiring Griffin Swinerton to act as an owner’s representative. That means the company will act as an extension of city staff, Deputy City Manager Brandon Pritchett said.

Under this contract, the firm will work to ensure the groundwork is laid properly for the project to succeed in the future, Pritchett said.

According to city documents, the scope of the contract includes refining the master plan, assessing infrastructure needs, soliciting public feedback, evaluating financing options, developing an implementation plan and leading the overall strategy of the development.

With summer around the corner, new businesses are springing up in Leander. Stay up to date on what's cropping up in the Leander community.

Now open: USA Ninja Challenge Leander
A USA Ninja Challenge gym has opened in Leander, offering children the opportunity to draw on gymnastics, cross-training and climbing skills.

• 1501 Leander Drive, Ste. A, No. 120, Leander

In the news: Texas Sweet Heat Jam
The Leander-based artisan jam company creates sweet and spicy fruit jams and pepper jellies while also providing culinary training and employment opportunities for adults with intellectual disabilities. Founded by entrepreneur and culinary artist Nolan Stilwell, the company's products are sold online and in H-E-B stores across Texas. The company celebrated 15 years of operation in April 2026.

• 1393 E. Woodview Drive, Leander

What's next: Day Maker Half Day Cafe
Day Maker Half Day Cafe, a concept from the team behind Jack Allens Kitchen and Salt Traders, is planned for a new Leander-based development, according to public records.

• 1605 E. New Hope Drive, Bldg. 3, Leander

Music, auctions and a mission to support medically fragile children will come together when Abbey Lights Up COTA returns for its eighth year.

What’s happening: The fundraising gala will feature auctions, drinks, food, music, raffles and more.

“The Daytripper” creator and host Chet Garner will serve as emcee.

Where funds go: Proceeds will support the Abigail E. Keller Foundation’s financial assistance, hospice care baskets, birthday celebrations and more.

Funds will also advance plans for Abbey House—a proposed pediatric respite and hospice facility in Central Texas.

Why it matters: Abbey House would provide temporary overnight care outside a hospital, giving caregivers time to rest or tend to other family needs.

What they’re saying: “The vision for Abbey House is rooted in the belief that no family should have to face those challenges alone,” foundation President and CEO Melissa Keller said.

• Aug. 22, 5-10 p.m.
• $350 (admission); $500 (VIP)
• Circuit of The Americas, 9201 Circuit of the Americas Blvd., Austin

Check out some top trending stories from the Austin area July 13-16. 

1. New Austin-area professional arena football team set to kick off in 2027

2. Check out 3 stories coming out of Hays County school districts

3. Round Rock Burger King to get $300K remodel

4. New $2.2B Cedar Creek data center project, abatements under review

5. Pharmaceutical venture announces $500M expansion in Northwest Austin

6. New Braunfels City Council appoints new acting city attorney

Gov. Greg Abbott named Robert S. Howden, one of his senior advisers and his office's legislative director, as Texas' 116th secretary of state effective July 18. Howden will succeed Secretary of State Jane Nelson, who resigned effective July 17 more than three years after she took office.

In a nutshell: As the state's chief elections officer, Howden will be responsible for overseeing the application of Texas election laws and assisting local election officials. The secretary of state's office also manages business records, government rules and regulations, and other official duties.

Following Abbott's appointment, Howden must be confirmed for the position by at least two-thirds of the Texas Senate. The state Legislature's next regular session will begin in January.