A new, faster commute option is now available for drivers traveling between Austin, Cedar Park and beyond. The northbound 183 Express Lanes, part of Phase 1 of the 183 North Mobility Project, opened Jan. 2, extending the region’s express lane network and creating a direct connection to the 183A Toll Road.

In a nutshell: The Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority announced the opening as part of a phased rollout of the long-running project. A northbound direct connector from the MoPac Express Lane to the 183 Express Lanes is expected to open soon, followed by southbound express lanes and connectors within the next few months. 

Non-tolled lanes and access points remain unchanged, and a fourth general-purpose lane between MoPac and SH 45 was previously completed in 2024.

The outlook: The $612 million project is expected to be fully completed in 2026 and aims to significantly reduce travel times while improving bike and pedestrian infrastructure along the corridor.

Mayor Kirk Watson outlined several of his stated accomplishments since returning to office, as well as his hopes for Austin's future, during a Jan. 6 state of the city speech downtown.

The details: Looking ahead to his final three years in office, Watson framed his approach around balancing short-term needs with longer-range plans to build on civic improvements and avoid potential pitfalls down the road.

He also pointed to progress on permitting improvements and public safety relationships as examples of recent wins the city can build on.

Focusing on the city's financial stability, drawing more economic development and growing Austin's international presence will be key for the years ahead, Watson said. Some of those goals may be advanced in the near future with updates like council spending reforms, citywide auditing measures and planned business expansions.

Looking ahead to later this year, Watson also said the city may need to hold off on a planned bond election to fund mobility, environmental, housing, cultural and public safety projects.

High Road DelicaTexan, a new all-day cafe, deli, market and cocktail bar, is now open in South Austin. 

A closer look: Helmed by the team behind East Austin’s The Cavalier, the new concept focuses on partnerships with local farms and producers, emphasizing sustainably sourced proteins and dairy, according to news release. The menu features grab-and-go and made-to-order sandwiches, house-made sausages and cured meats, vegetarian options, a full coffee program, and craft cocktails.

According to the team, the concept is designed to celebrate Texas-made products from morning through late evening, with a family-friendly atmosphere until 9 p.m.  
📍 915 W. Mary St., Austin

While some individuals are interested in working on personal goals and mental health in a traditional talk therapy environment, there are additional options for those looking for a different way to work on intrapersonal goals. Here are five alternative therapy options across the Austin area. 

Community Art Therapy
Type of therapies offered: Art therapy, trauma-informed therapy, somatic and expressive arts approaches, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, play-based interventions and art therapy process groups
📍11402 Joy St., Austin; 12741 Research Blvd., Ste. 402, Austin; 8700 Menchaca Road, Ste. 202, Austin

Open My World Therapeutic Riding Center
Type of therapy offered: adaptive horseback riding, horse powered reading, H.A.P.Y. (“Hug A Pony”) mobile program, bringing mini horses to autism, memory care and hospice centers
📍 5300 CR 279, Leander

Sound for Stress
Type of therapy offered: sound healing experiences
📍 Classes vary in locations across Round Rock and Austin