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Bastrop officials have officially replaced the city’s previous Bastrop Building Block, or B3, development rules with a new Bastrop Development Code and zoning map aimed at simplifying future growth and development standards.

What's happening: City leaders said the updated code shifts away from B3’s place-type system and returns to a more traditional zoning structure with familiar districts such as single-family residential, rural residential and mixed-use. Officials said the B3 helped improve walkability and preserve downtown character but proved difficult to navigate for residents, developers and staff. The new code also adds updated standards for single-family neighborhoods and additional floodplain protections in flood-prone areas.

What it means: City staff emphasized that existing properties are not being rezoned into different uses, but instead moved into comparable districts under the new framework. Officials said the code restores the Zoning Board of Adjustment and creates new administrative relief options. Council members said they expect future amendments and adjustments as the city continues implementing the new regulations.

Fresh Coat Painters of Bastrop and San Marcos began serving homeowners and business owners in January with customized interior and exterior painting services.

Meet the owner: Owner James Burkhart, who was born in San Marcos and now lives in Bastrop, said both communities are personal to him.

“I spent a good portion of my youth at my grandparents' house [in San Marcos],” he said. “Every street I drive down there brings back a memory of being in the car with them.”

What they offer: Burkhart and his team help residential and commercial property owners refresh high-traffic interior areas, trim, doors, siding and exterior features that can affect curb appeal—which Burkhart said is huge.

The business serves the following locations:

• Bastrop

• Dale

• Lockhart

• Martindale

• Maxwell

• Paige

• Red Rock

• San Marcos

Notable quote: “I want us to be a part of helping our neighbors invest in their properties,” he said. “Anyone can put paint on a wall, but taking the time to properly prep surfaces and deliver a clean, professional finish is what makes the difference.”

Royce Flournoy, president and founder of Texas Construction, launched the business over 30 years ago, bringing decades of craftsmanship to the Austin area. As a certified aging-in-place specialist, Flournoy supports homeowners in evolving their space to support changing needs.

The approach: Aging in place refers to the decision for older residents to stay in their existing homes as aging may cause physical limitations and a need for new infrastructure.

Texas Construction works with design specialists at Amity Worrel & Co. to make home improvement modifications at Age in Place in Style. By teaming up, the companies provide a comprehensive service to homeowners so they don’t have to compromise safety or style as their needs evolve over time.

Dig deeper: The Texas Construction team connected with Community Impact to discuss the importance of modifying homes for the safety and comfort of aging residents. This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

• 5609 S. Congress Ave., Ste. 210, Austin

Check out some of the most-read stories from the Austin area May 25-28. 

1. From multifamily to master-planned: Check out 6 housing developments in San Marcos, Buda and Kyle

2. Signal at H-E-B, Loop 360: 3 local transportation updates

3. Swig to open soon along SH 130 in Hutto

4. Trustees move forward with concept plan for Round Rock High School renovations

5. Austin advances 45-year development deal for Colorado River 'mega-site'

6. Tea and coffee shops among new and coming soon businesses in east Georgetown

Texas residents are increasingly facing damaging storms that drive up home insurance rates and other housing costs. Ahead of the state's 2027 legislative session, consumer advocates and insurance industry representatives are urging lawmakers to consider affordability solutions.

What's happening: The average Texas home insurance premium—the amount paid to an insurance company—was $3,291 in 2024, according to the latest Texas Department of Insurance data. In total, premiums rose about 50% between 2022-24.

Texas’ high propensity for natural disasters has been “the No. 1 driver” behind recent rate increases, said Rich Johnson, a spokesperson for the Insurance Council of Texas.

Stay tuned: While Texas can't legislate itself out of weather risks, lawmakers have considered some policy changes to increase disaster resiliency and boost regulatory oversight of the insurance industry. Proposals range from creating grants to help residents weather-proof their homes to placing limits on future rate hikes.