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.

Latino grocery store Mercado Libertad is now open in Liberty Hill.
Owner Samuel Velez said the store officially opened Jan. 5.
What they offer: Velez said the store offers variety of authentic Mexican and Central American products, including:

• Fresh produce
• Refrigerated items
• Snacks
• Drinks
• Tortillas
• Spices
• Household essentials

Often described by city leaders as the “crown jewel” of Round Rock’s park system, Old Settlers Park has become one of the city’s most heavily used recreational spaces as population growth has increased demand for fields, events and amenities.

The 645-acre park, which is nearly twice the size of Austin’s Zilker Park, is now the focus of a major voter-approved investment.

The big picture: Old Settlers Park has been a central gathering place in Round Rock for more than 30 years. Now, a voter-approved bond is reshaping the city’s largest park with a series of upgrades intended to meet growing demand and expand its role as a regional destination.

What else: The Rock’N River water park is set to undergo one of the largest changes in its history as part of the Old Settlers expansion. The project includes construction of a new “action river,” cabanas with access to a private pool and additional parking. 

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. This list is not comprehensive.

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