Traffic, toads and more: Check out 5 of May's most-read stories in Bastrop

Stay in the know with the top five most-read stories in May, including details on upcoming developments, transportation projects and more.

1. Bastrop retail boom expands SH 71 corridor

Three developments—Sendero, Burleson Crossing East and Bastrop West—are in various stages of construction. While Sendero and Burleson Crossing East would add retail and dining, Sendero would also bring housing and medical services. Bastrop West, meanwhile, could bring the city’s first full-scale hospital, plus a new hotel and convention center.

2. Road to relief: Drivers navigate construction along SH 71 as TxDOT continues $293M updates

Orange barrels and shifting lanes are a daily reality for drivers along SH 71 between Bastrop and Austin, where a 22-mile stretch of improvements is steadily reshaping the corridor—changes Bastrop officials said will bring long-term relief for motorists. TxDOT projects aimed at alleviating that congestion as part of the SH 71 East Corridor improvements include: Tucker Hill Lane, Ross Road and Kellam Road, Pope Bend Road and FM 1209.

3. ‘Prime conditions’: Houston toad recovery efforts renewed in Bastrop

More than 1 million Houston toad eggs were released in Bastrop County this spring as part of a renewed effort to restore the endangered species. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department officials said they hope to reestablish Houston toads at Bastrop State Park after the species disappeared following the 2011 Bastrop County Complex Wildfire.

4. Community comment period opens on proposed groundwater conditions in Bastrop County

A 90-day public comment period is now open for the proposed groundwater “Desired Future Conditions” for aquifers across Groundwater Management Area 12, giving residents and stakeholders a chance to weigh in on long-term water planning decisions.

5. Bastrop home cook brings local flavor to ‘MasterChef: Global Gauntlet’

Bastrop resident Camilo Chavez is bringing a mix of Texas flair, Mexican heritage and hometown pride to Fox’s “MasterChef: Global Gauntlet.” The 16th season of “MasterChef” premiered April 15 and features Gordon Ramsay alongside judges Joe Bastianich and Tiffany Derry.