ATX-CTA: Impact 7/23/2026

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Top Story

Austin ISD board to vote on immediate Paredes Middle School closure

Austin ISD is proposing to close Paredes Middle School before the school year begins Aug. 18, with students transitioning to Bailey or Mendez middle schools based on where they live.

The context: The proposal comes months after trustees approved a turnaround plan for Paredes rather than closing it.

The campus has received three consecutive failing accountability ratings from the Texas Education Agency.

What’s next: The board of trustees will hear the proposal at a special information session July 28 and vote July 30, with both meetings starting at 6 p.m. and livestreamed on the district’s Facebook and YouTube channels.

If approved, the closure would take effect before the school year begins Aug. 18.

Read the full story.

Market Story

Ben and Jerry’s will soon serve scoops in Rosedale

Ben and Jerry’s is headed to Rosedale Village Shopping Center soon, bringing ice cream scoops, pints and bars, according to the brand’s website.

Learn more: The company has not announced an opening date at this time, though signage posted at the location indicates the team is hiring.

The new ice cream shop is taking over the former Pressed Juicery space, which sold juices, smoothies and wellness shots from its Rosedale storefront.

On the menu: Ben and Jerry’s sells flavors such as Cherry Garcia, Americone Dream and Caramel Chocolate Cheesecake. The company’s newer flavors include Honey Graham Latte and Razz Up.

The ice cream business also sells non-dairy versions of its classic flavors like Chocolate Caramel Brownie and Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough. Non-ice cream treats include the cookie dough chunks, ice cream bars, doggie desserts and sundaes.

4800 Burnet Road, Austin

On The Transportation Beat

Central Austin transportation: Congress Avenue redesign underway, I-35 work advances

Central Austin's transportation network continues evolving this summer with major projects downtown and along I-35.

What's happening: The redesign of Congress Ave. is under construction between Cesar Chavez and 7th streets through summer 2027, and MLK Jr. Blvd. bridge reconstruction wraps late this year.

What's next: The downtown and University I-35 segments begin construction in 2027, and Austin has committed $104 million toward foundations for future I-35 caps.

Dive deeper.

On The Business Beat

Soma Reform to bring Pilates and more to South Lamar with upcoming relocation

Soma Reform, a movement and wellness-focused business, is relocating to South Lamar on Aug. 1. The business will bring Pilates, acupuncture and more to the former Sfingiday and Succulent Native spot in South Central Austin, according to a news release.

Sfingiday, a local artisan and gift shop, closed earlier this summer, according to previous Community Impact reporting.

About the business: Founded by Elli Kmeicis, Soma Reform is a spot built for movement, recovery and ritual, according to its website.

The studio offers reformer and mat Pilates, yoga and cathartic therapeutic dance. In addition to movement, Soma Reform also offers acupuncture, facials, cupping, herbal therapy and more from three independent women healers, according to a news release.

The celebration: To commemorate the move, Soma Reform is hosting an open house event Aug. 1 from noon-3 p.m. Visitors can take part in studio tours, attend a mat Pilates or yoga class, enjoy food and beverages and listen to live music.

2058 S. Lamar Blvd., Austin

Your local team

Elle Bent
Editor

Krista Box
General Manager

Email [email protected] for story ideas, tips or questions.

Good Morning, Central Austin!

Your local team

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