Developers Taylor Morrison and M/I homes broke ground on Chisholm Trails in late August with plans to build approximately 800 homes near SH 130.

The neighborhood will address the needs of the growing Georgetown population, said April Whitaker, regional president at Taylor Morrison.

The details: Chisholm Trails will open in late 2027, Whitaker said. Although home sizes and pricing have not been finalized, the homebuilders plan to release more details about floor plans and price ranges closer to build-out.

The neighborhood will feature pocket parks and trails throughout the community, as well as a pool and pool house on a 3.1-acre amenity site, Whitaker said.

"Chisholm Trails helps support this continued growth by providing new housing opportunities within Georgetown's expanding eastern growth corridor," Whitaker said. "The community offers convenient access to Georgetown, Round Rock and major regional employment centers, while also providing proximity to retail, transportation corridors and planned community."

The Williamson County Facilities Department is working on several projects to upgrade parks and infrastructure across the county.

Facilities Manager Dale Butler gave an update on the projects at an Oct. 6 Commissioners Court meeting.

1. Parks

Work has begun on Southwest Williamson County Regional Park in Leander, Butler said. Lonestar Soccer Club is sponsoring the improvements to upgrade four fields to artificial turf, according to previous Community Impact reporting.

Construction will conclude in spring 2027, Butler said.

2. Facilities

Construction on the Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter includes new multistory adoption and clinic facilities. It is expected to be completed in fall 2027, Butler said.

3. Historic preservation and upgrades

For the historic courthouse in downtown Georgetown, the county is working to restore the terrazzo flooring, upgrade lighting, recondition HVAC and remodel the building.

Ahead of Texas' 2027 legislative session, the state comptroller's office has asked lawmakers to double funding for its $1 billion education savings account program.

The overview: The program gives participating families taxpayer dollars for private education and homeschooling, and officials said at least $2 billion are needed to maintain current participation in the program.

Meanwhile, some Texas families are raising concerns about their local school districts losing money as students leave public schools to participate in the program, known as Texas Education Freedom Accounts.

What they're saying: "149 students have accepted vouchers that were otherwise enrolled in Pflugerville ISD, [resulting in] an estimated loss of $1.2 million in attendance funding," said Stacy Harrell, a PfISD parent. "That lost funding will add to budget cuts that are already affecting Pflugerville ISD families. Four elementary schools [are closing], with the possibility of more."