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AUGUST 14, 2019 | NEWSLETTER
ROUND ROCK NEWS
TxDOT I-35 project near University begins
TxDOT broke ground this month on a new project at I-35 from University Boulevard/RM 1431 to northbound Old Settlers Boulevard/FM 3406.

The project will relocate the existing RM 1431 exit ramp on the northbound I-35 frontage road to reduce congestion on the mainlaines, and improve the northbound frontage road by adding an extended exit lane between RM 1431 and FM 3406. The $10.4 million project is expected to be complete in late 2020, weather permitting.


Round Rock breaks ground on new Fire Station 3
The City of Round Rock broke ground on a new fire station Monday, Aug. 12, in the La Frontera shopping center.

The new Station 3 will be located at 201 Sundance Parkway, replacing the existing Station 3 that was built in 1991 on Rawhide Drive.

The new 11,500 sq. ft. station will house an engine, aerial fire apparatus, Williamson County EMS ambulance crew and provide additional space for future growth. 

 
Countywide burn ban in effect
Outdoor burning is currently prohibited in Round Rock due to a  county-wide burn ban  in effect.

The  Williamson County Commissioners Court  approved a burn ban Tuesday, Aug. 6, for up to the next 90 days. 

The burn ban prohibits the burning of household yard waste, such as leaves, grass, brush and other yard trimmings. It also prohibits burning in order to clear land of trees, stumps, shrubbery or other natural vegetation.


Annual report: City water meets federal guidelines
The City of Round Rock’s water meets or exceeds all state and federal guidelines for safe drinking water, according to the annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) .

The report, which is required by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) , shows that no violations were found for all contaminants requiring testing by the federal agency for the previous calendar year.

Be advised that some companies promote testing or filtration services at this time of year through sensationalized social media advertising and door-to-door solicitation.   

FEATURE STORY
Sports tourism is a win-win for Round Rock
From the Dell Diamond to the Round Rock Sports Center and Round Rock Multipurpose Complex, the City’s investment in top-notch facilities pays off in a number of ways. 


Total direct travel spending in Round Rock for international and domestic travelers totaled $319 million in 2017 (the most recent year for which figures are available). State and local tax revenues directly generated by travel spending were approximately $29 million in 2017. 

The local tax revenue generated from visitors helps to improve infrastructure, add services and keep property taxes low. The money spent by visitors helps employ residents, pay their salaries and keep the local economy strong. Total direct employment in Round Rock for the travel industry in 2017 was 3,250 jobs and $114 million total direct earnings.  

EVENT SPOTLIGHT
Artist registration now open for Chalk Walk 2019
The Chalk Walk Arts Festival is Round Rock’s largest festival for the arts, highlighting beautiful sidewalk murals. This year's event will be held Oct. 4 and 5 at the Dell Diamond making room for more live music and activities for the whole family!

The City of Round Rock is currently accepting registration from artists who want to compete for Best in Show. Registration is $40 through Aug. 31 and $50 after Sept. 1. The deadline is Sept. 30.

The event and parking will be free, with food and drinks for sale. Activities for kids include a children's chalk zone area, train rides, the Austin Bike Zoo, roaming characters including Curious George and stilt walkers, and a face painting tent.


Learn more about the event, including sponsorship opportunities, performer registration, music lineup and more at chalkwalk.org .
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
Ranger Outdoor Recreation Education Workshop
9 to 11 a.m.
Saturday, Aug. 17
Heritage House
910 Heritage Center Cir.

Ranger David will provide tips, education and initiatives to help Round Rock families protect and enjoy our world responsibly. 

For more information contact Ranger David at 512-801-4910 or drobinson@roundrocktexas.gov.

For more information about our Park Rangers, go to roundrocktexas.gov/ranger.
Shred for a Paws Cause
8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 14
Round Rock Recycling Center
310 Deepwood Drive

A donation for Williamson County animals allows you to securely destroy your documents and hard drives during the semi-annual Shred for a Paws Cause event, hosted by City of Round Rock and Balcones Shred. All donations benefit the Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter!

For more information, including a link to the shelter’s Amazon Wish List for donations, visit roundrocktexas.gov/shredday.