Check out the top trending Community Impact stories from the Austin area, Dec. 15-18.

1. 11,985-square-foot retail center to be built in Bastrop’s Adelton community

Developers have announced plans for a retail center in Adelton, marking a major step toward delivering the first shops and services for the mixed-use, master-planned community in Bastrop.

Learn more from Reporter Joel Valley.

2. Austin Community College enrollment increases by nearly 10%


Current Austin Community College enrollment is nearing 44,000 students, showing a near 10% growth from fall 2024’s enrollment numbers.

Get the full story from Reporter Dacia Garcia.

3. Melina neighborhood to bring 840 homes near Georgetown

Hillwood Communities, a residential and commercial developer, broke ground on the Melina neighborhood in early December.


The master-planned community has about 840 homes in the works and will welcome its first residents in 2027, according to a news release from the developer.

Read more from Reporter Gracie Warhurst.

4. Dozens of Lake Austin properties move to disannex; city to lose nearly $300M value

A series of properties along Lake Austin totaling nearly $300 million in taxable value to the city are slated to exit its full jurisdiction under a new state law, following years of complaints over lacking public services and taxation by Austin in that area.


Find out why from Reporter Ben Thompson.

5. 320-unit multifamily development coming to Steiner Ranch area

Ascent Investment Partners and Endeavor Real Estate Group announced in December the acquisition of 10 acres along RM 620 with plans for a new 320-unit multifamily project.

Catch up on coverage from Editor Grace Dickens.


6. Check out these trails and road projects in Round Rock

Learn more about upcoming, completed and ongoing trails and road projects in Round Rock.

Scope out future hikes with the story from Reporter Brooke Sjoberg.