ATX-RRK: Impact 10/6/2025

The next segment of Kenney Fort Boulevard is under design in Round Rock.

Overview: Round Rock City Council approved the purchase of 3.7 acres of right of way for the next segment of the road in late September. The piece of land—purchased for $500,000 and funded by the Round Rock Transportation and Economic Development Corporation—will make way for Kenney Fort Boulevard segment 5.

Segment 5 will extend from Old Settlers Boulevard and tie into CR 112, where Kenney Fort Boulevard segment 6 will begin and extend to University Boulevard. Director of Public Works Michael Thane said a portion of CR 117 where it meets CR 112 “will go away,” and likely turn into an internal driveway once construction is complete.

Learn more about three restaurants now open and coming soon in Round Rock. 

What you need to know: Jet's Pizza and The Monk's Indian Fusion are now open. 

Did you know?: A Caribbean restaurant will bring flavors of the region to the University Commons retail center, with owners Dianne and Wayne Anderson targeting an opening in mid-October. 
 

Williamson County will be under a burn ban for up to 90 days due to drought conditions, following commissioner approval Sept. 30.

The details: While the burn ban is in effect, residents may not burn combustible materials, including leaves, grass, brush and trees, outside of an enclosure that contains all flames and sparks. Violations are punishable with a fine of up to $500.

The order will be in effect for 90 days unless lifted earlier by the commissioners or County Judge Steve Snell if drought conditions improve.

The cause: Drought conditions, especially on the east side of the county, have contributed to high and very high fire danger risk this week, Williamson County Fire Marshal Mike Lugo said at the meeting.

According to a Sept. 26 press release, Target has launched a first-of-its-kind accessible self-checkout experience designed for guests with disabilities, including those who are blind or have low vision.

The self-checkouts will roll out nationwide beginning this holiday season and in early 2026 as part of Target's ongoing checkout improvements, according to the release.

What to expect: Per the release, the innovation is a guest-first design that primarily supports people who are visually impaired while supporting those with motor disabilities.

The technology works with Target’s existing self-checkout system and includes:

• Braille and high-contrast button icons
• A headphone jack with adjustable volume controls
• Physical navigation buttons and a dedicated information key

Here are the top trending Community Impact stories in the Austin metro from Sept. 29-Oct. 3.

1. New restaurant Grey Orchard to open in Round Rock

2. Nana B's Country Kitchen now serving comfort food in Round Rock

3. Jet's Pizza opens Round Rock shop near Old Settlers Boulevard

4. Texas Roadhouse to open in Leander this November

5. Austin ISD adopts lower tax rate for 2025-26, homeowners could see savings

6. Q&A: Meet 4 candidates for Pflugerville mayor