The Highland Lakes Watershed could supply up to 21% less water during a severe drought than the Lower Colorado River Authority currently estimates, according to a new study released by the Central Texas Water Coalition that found less rainfall is reaching Lakes Travis and Buchanan despite relatively steady precipitation.

The background: Nine of the 10 years with the lowest amounts of water flowing into the Highland Lakes have occurred since 2006, while only three of the watershed's lowest rainfall years occurring in that same period, according to the study.

Although rainfall over the watershed has been steady for more than 100 years, the land is still sending less of each year's rain to Lake Buchanan and Lake Travis.

Lakeway residents can expect updates to several parks and recreational facilities in the coming years as the city moves forward with projects funded by a $22 million bond package approved by voters in 2024.

Lakeway Activity Center: The Lakeway Activity Center’s updated playscape was completed in September 2025.

Butler Rough Hollow Park: Following the groundbreaking ceremony in July, construction on Butler Rough Hollow Park is underway.

Lakeway City Park: The city is in the design phase for the $10.6 million improvement project at Lakeway City Park. The city and Dunaway, the engineering and design firm leading the project, plan to complete this phase by January, with the project estimated to go out to bid for construction in fall of 2027.

Lakeway Swim Center: Lakeway city staff have begun preliminary discussions with engineering and design firms regarding improvements to the Lakeway Swim Center.

Live Oaks Tennis Courts: Design work has not started on the Live Oak Tennis Courts, however Lakeway city staff have been in contact with the United States Tennis Association to discuss grant opportunities.

As Austin prepares to host the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas from Oct. 22-25, brands are hosting various fan activations across the city. Local racing fans can experience watch parties, car shows, live entertainment and other activities at several pop-up events:

• Atlassian Williams F1 Team Fan Zone from Oct. 19-24, featuring driver appearances, a show car and racing simulators.
• Ford Racing Den at Distribution Hall from Oct. 21-25, offering watch parties, live music and flash tattoos.
• MINI Garage Pop Up from Oct. 22-24, featuring free coffee and donuts and an appearance by racer Charlie Cooper.
• Red Bull Austin Race Nights Fan Zone from Oct. 22-25, with racing simulators and driver appearances.
• Google Store Pit Stop on Oct. 24, featuring a mini track and photo opportunities.
• Sports Illustrated’s Circuit Series on Oct. 24, offering musical performances and axe throwing.
• Luxury & Exotic Car Showcase on Oct. 25, featuring a luxury car show.
• Race Weekend Apple Sessions on Oct. 25, hosting an Apple TV broadcast of the race.