Austin is moving to enact a new regulatory framework covering how and where data centers can be built in the city, and block the development of the largest and most resource-intensive facilities.

“We’re looking to have a complete, legally viable means of regulation, prevention and protection," Mayor Kirk Watson said.

What's happening: Today, data centers are generally allowed in Austin's commercial and industrial areas and there are no specific rules in place to control or monitor their development. City staff identified targeted land-use policy as the most effective way to enact local oversight of data centers, and to mitigate any negative effects on residents and public resources.

After a unanimous City Council vote to pursue those regulations on Aug. 27, some could go into effect by the end of the year after code updates are drafted and considered through public reviews.

AEG Presents announced new details about its 65,000-square-foot live music venue, including a naming rights deal with United Heritage Credit Union to call the venue United Heritage Hall, according to a news release. The venue is slated to open in spring 2027 in East Austin.

Learn more: The project will anchor River Park, a 109-acre mixed-use community in Riverside—detailed as a “vibrant, walkable district that brings new music, culture and entertainment” to the east side, according to the release. River Park, from developer Presidium, will bring 10 million square feet of residential, commercial and open space.

Travis County is putting more money and more seats behind afterschool care this fall.

By the numbers: Only 23% of the county's priority-population students have access to a seat, and just 17% can get into a program running all five days, according to a new landscape analysis from the Andy Roddick Foundation. 
Transportation is families' top barrier, and 72% of sites close by 6 p.m., a mismatch for parents working later shifts. Most programs are built for younger kids, so only 14-15% of seats serve middle and high schoolers, and 1 in 4 sites could close due to funding, space or school closures.

Learn more: Raising Travis County has put $51.7 million into child care and afterschool to date, and Judge Andy Brown says that total has since climbed to $52 million. 
Families earning up to 85% of the state median income may qualify for child care scholarships, with a different threshold for afterschool and summer programs. Providers include the Greater Austin YMCA, Boys & Girls Clubs and Foundation Communities.