State records show Layne’s Chicken Fingers filed to open a 2,968‑sq‑ft West Campus spot at 701 W 24th, with construction slated Feb. 2–Apr. 30. The location joins a crowded student food scene.

Round Rock announces city office closures and events to honor Martin Luther King Jr. Day, including online services for closed offices, recreational options, and the 39th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Walk.

Buda updated city rules to make regular live music easier for downtown venues, adding a music‑venue permit, noise limits and a fee waiver through March 2027.

Zell Miller III launched Black Rose ATX, a nonprofit theater focused on youth programs, school partnerships and paid artist-teachers. The group aims to pair shows with in-school pilots and scholarships.

A leadership fight at the University of Austin has prompted resignations, disputed student discipline and questions about donor control as the new school grows. Here’s what happened and what to watch next.

Portland's Killer Burger has filed to open an East Village location on East Parmer Lane, with construction set for February and a summer opening targeted.

Texas Governor Abbott has announced a $15.2 million investment from the Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund to Tekscend Photomask for photomask production, creating 50 jobs in Round Rock.

Property Reserve Inc. bought nearly 2,900 acres of Nance Ranch near Kyle, reopening debate over a proposed bridge, a 9,000‑unit buildout and multi‑million dollar water work.

The Toasted Yolk will open a new cafe this summer at the Shops at the Brick and Mortar District in Kyle, led by franchisees John and Miriam Diaz.

Central Texas Food Bank partners with Austin ISD to launch six new school-based food pantries, aiming to provide families with accessible and free nutritious food on school grounds.

Austin Parks Foundation and the City of Austin made significant park improvements in 2025, enhancing playgrounds and trails, preserving historical elements, and controlling erosion.

The University of Austin has built an applied engineering lab beside Elon Musk’s Bastrop campus; public records and a university post show contractors tied to the Musk complex filed permits.

HOPE Outdoor Gallery has reopened near the Austin airport with free paintable walls, a new indoor gallery and community programming.