Williamson County Newcomer & Relocation Guide - 2017/2018 Edition

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

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CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Derek Wright

PRESIDENT

Kevin Evans

VICE PRESIDENT

Michael P. Blalock

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Robert Nusbaum

PUBLISHER

Susan Singhaus

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Erin Hayden Seal

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Cecile Ruffino

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Robin Bramlette

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Welcome to Williamson County

Open for Business

An introduction and overview of Williamson County and the cities within

An overview of the area's booming business climate including a list of the largest employers

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Excellence in Education

Staying Happy & Healthy

Information on the public school districts and many private schools in Williamson County

A variety of healthcare resources including area hospital and medical center information

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Life in Williamson County

This is the Life

A look at Williamson County cities, communities and demographics

There is a lot of fun to be had in Williamson County. Here you'll find attractions for all ages.

99 Attractions 104 Sports

86 Apartments & Condos 92 Active Adult Living

120 Get Ready to Make the Move If you haven't moved here yet, we're guessing you will be soon. Here are tips to help make your move to Williamson County a smooth one.

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Welcome Letters 6-11 Williamson County Events 103 Williamson County is Golf Country 107 Advertiser Index 128 Foldout Map of the Area last page

CONTENT + PHOTOGRAPHY

We would like to thank the following individuals, companies and organizations for their contributions to the publication: Bryson, Candice Nusbaum, City of Cedar Park, Greystar, City of Hutto, City of Jarrell, City of Leander, Liberty Hill Economic Development Corporation, Rob Aldridge Photography, City of Round Rock, Round Rock Express, Round Rock Christian Academy, Sprout Photography, Taylor Marketing Partnership, WCLife, Williamson County Association of REALTORS® Cover photo by Rob Aldridge Photography, courtesy of Cimarron Hills

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ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVE Marjorie Phillips

PRESIDENT

Suzanne Gantner

MARKETING & PR DIRECTOR

Hannah Poyo ________________________________ The Williamson County Newcomer & Relocation Guide is published and distributed annually by WEB Media Group LLC. For advertising information, please call 512-266-2900.

Although every attempt is made to be as comprehensive and accurate as possible, WEB Media Group LLC is not responsible for any misprints, errors, omissions, deletions or the accuracy of the information in the publication. WEB Media Group LLC does not accept responsibility for any loss, injury or inconvenience sustained by anyone using this publication. © WEB Media Group LLC 2017 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form, by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, or otherwise, without the written permission of the publisher.

WELCOME from

WILLIAMSON COUNTY ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS速 Welcome to Central Texas, welcome to Williamson County When you are making a major move in your life, you will need a professional to make that a smooth transition. It just makes financial sense to hire someone who has your best interest at heart.

Whether you are buying or selling, you need qualified representation. A Texas REALTOR速 can assist you with the entire process, from paperwork to closing. It is our fiduciary duty to serve your needs.

Williamson County has it all. We are proud to call it our home, our workplace and our stomping grounds. Our county has many housing options, from town homes to ranches and more. Look for a Williamson County Certified Specialist to make your goals easier.

We are glad to help!

Suzanne Gantner GRI, e-Pro, SRES, SRS, ABR, CNE, WCS, REDS, REPS President of the Williamson County Association of REALTORS速 2017 REALTOR速 at Sky Realty

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WELCOME from

WILLIAMSON COUNTY ASSOCIATION OF REALTORSÂŽ Williamson County is a great place to live, and we know you will love it as much as we do!

From Taylor to Cedar Park, Round Rock to Georgetown, Liberty Hill to Jarrell, our community is not like anywhere else. With a small-town feel, but a big town environment, Williamson County is just a short distance away from Austin. We still have all the local favorites, from live music and movies in the park to our very own outlet mall, and the best downtown square in Texas.

Explore all that Williamson County has to offer by visiting our website at www.wclife.org.

Discover the unique culture of our cities, our history and love of the arts, as well as the numerous neighborhoods. Find fun family friendly events, a local business directory and a blog to keep you up-to-date!

We hope to become part of your family! Welcome home!

Marjorie Phillips, RCE Association Executive of the Williamson County Association of REALTORSÂŽ

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WELCOME from

GRAND ENDEAVOR HOMES We are so glad you have decided to move to Williamson County. Welcome!

For over 30 years Jimmy Jacobs has offered an array of home building services to premier residential communities throughout Central Texas. Now, Jacobs’ signature attention to detail and innovative designs can be found in his latest venture, Grand Endeavor Homes.

A Georgetown-based custom home builder, Grand Endeavor Homes constructs new homes in custom home communities, including Highland Oaks and Rio Ancho in Liberty Hill, and builds throughout central Texas, including the Highland Lakes area as well.

Grand Endeavor Homes also offers a “Build On Your Lot” option that features Jacobs’ award-winning, premier quality craftsmanship to Georgetown, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Leander, Liberty Hill, Belton, Taylor and beyond. This state-of-the-art custom approach brings comprehensive, team-oriented support through each step of the home building process, providing home buyers with a personal “Build On Your Lot” team who works side-by-side as a partner from the very beginning with lot assistance, home placement, consultation, planning, interior design selection and custom-builder support.

This unique construction approach offers unlimited vision and design opportunities, and your home is guaranteed to be built with Grand Endeavor Homes’ uncompromising quality.

Whether you choose one of our premier communities, a community we build in or a “Build On Your Lot” custom home, the Jacobs organization will exceed your expectations.

From your lot to your legacy, Grand Endeavor Homes is honored to welcome you home!

Jimmy Jacobs President, Grand Endeavor Homes

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WELCOME from

UNITED WAY OF WILLIAMSON COUNTY Welcome to Williamson County! Williamson County has so much to offer: a booming job market, great schools, beautiful parks, amazing BBQ, and the list goes on and on.

We are lucky to live in a community with so many amazing opportunities for everyone to have a great quality of life. But it’s the people who live here that really make this a special place to live and work. For more than 80 years, the people of Williamson County have joined forces with United Way to lend a hand to their friends and neighbors in need.

United Way continues to fight for the health, education and financial stability of every person in every Williamson County community. We forge unlikely partnerships, mobilize the best resources and look for practical solutions to old problems.

We fight for a community where every person has the opportunity to thrive and to reach their full potential.

Change doesn’t happen alone. We need more people who recognize the power that comes from a shared purpose. We need more people to reach out to those who need help. And hope.

We need people like you. People to Give, Advocate and Volunteer. People who will mentor a student or volunteer for our free tax program. People who understand we are stronger together than we are alone. I invite you to explore the many ways you can help in your (new) hometown at www.unitedway-wc.org.

Join us. We all win when we Live United.

LeAnn Powers, Chief Professional Officer

WELCOME from

INDEPENDENCE TITLE Welcome to Williamson County!

Williamson has so much to offer, from big-city amenities to close-knit neighborhoods, rural landscapes and more.

Congratulations on choosing one of the nation’s most vital communities as your new home! As you move through your decision-making process and home purchase, we can help with all the below and more: • Connecting with a skilled and effective REALTOR® and/or mortgage professional; • Assessing various financial strategies with our suite of online calculators; • Learning everything you need to know about local schools, amenities, transportation and connectivity; • Putting all the pieces together to close on your new home!

Start with a visit to our website at www.IndependenceTitle.com. From there, click “Austin” and then “Tools.” There you’ll find calculators, area information and so much more that can help you with this life-changing decision.

And of course, feel free to give us a call! We look forward to helping you put together your Williamson County dream life!

Kara McGregor Senior Vice President Business Development

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WELCOME from

REALTY AUSTIN The Williamson County lifestyle is friendly, active and full of vibrant opportunities!

With its highly sought-after quality of life and strong community, Williamson County is a top destination to make the move and call home. Whether you are a Hill Country newbie or just looking for a change of scenery, we can help you find the right real estate investment. From sprawling ranches to gated neighborhoods, Williamson County offers many unique communities to choose from to fit your needs.

Easily search homes in the area on realtyaustin.com/williamson-county or stop by any of our eight offices where our team is ready to serve you: Round Rock, Lake Travis, Westlake, Central Austin, East Austin, Northwest Austin, Southwest Austin and Dripping Springs. Our team of 400 full-time, high-producing real estate agents were hand-selected for their experience, market knowledge and career accomplishments.

Realty Austin is the #1 independent real estate company in the Austin area, with over $2.2 billion in sales in 2016. A member of Luxury Portfolio International® and Leading Real Estate Companies of the World®, Realty Austin is the most innovative and progressive real estate company in Austin, uniquely suited for this area’s high tech, homegrown culture.

Make the Move with Realty Austin — and start your home search today at realtyaustin.com.

Yvette Boatwright Broker, co-owner, Realty Austin

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WELCOME TO WILLIAMSON

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Williamson County is the seventhfastest-growing county in the nation.

With smart growth and strong economy, Williamson County is often ranked in many other national listings as providing a safe, vibrant and affordable place to live.

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» AN OVERVIEW OF WILLIAMSON COUNTY Again this year, the U.S. News and World Report ranked Austin (the northern part, which is in Williamson County) as America’s best city to live in, as part of its annual rankings of the 100 largest cities in the country. Additionally, Round Rock, Williamson County’s largest city, was designated the 16th most livable city in the nation by Niche, which takes into account quality of schools, crime rate, housing trends, employment statistics and access to amenities. Clearly, life is good here. And more and more people are discovering this.

From a quaint rural area, Williamson County has doubled its population in the last decade and is one of the fastestgrowing areas in the United States. It is no longer a sleepy bedroom suburb north of Austin; it’s a thriving community with major employers and amenities, but one that offers its residents the chance to get away from it all.

Williamson County straddles a transition zone where Texas Blackland Prairie, with its rich, fertile farmland, gives way to the Upland of the Texas Hill Country, with its undulating, rocky terrain which features hardwood trees, rivers and vistas.

Bisecting the county from north to south (essentially along I-35) is the Balcones Escarpment, the surface expression of the Balcones Fault, which has cliffs, hills and caves. Running through the center of the county is the San Gabriel River and underneath it, the Edwards Aquifer, fed by rainwater percolating through the porous, honeycombed limestone of the area.

All this scenic topography, together with generally pleasant weather, means the folks of Williamson County get to enjoy the outdoors year-round. Even if you’re not interested in golfing, hunting, hiking or fishing, it’s delightful to sip a latte on an outdoor patio, gather with friends for a backyard barbeque or picnic in

some of the finest parks in Texas. With about 228 sunny days a year, an average January low of 37 degrees and an average July high of 95, the weather is mostly warm and welcoming.

But there’s lots to do inside, too. The numerous excellent institutions of higher learning are a breeding ground for a lively arts scene. Many artists, arts supporters and art councils and projects work to ensure an enriching cultural life. Perhaps inspired by the local scenic beauty, visual and performance artists, and musicians abound.

There are a multitude of performance spaces, artistic schools, and museums, so it’s easy to be inspired.

Yes, families are flocking to Williamson County, with its opportunities for employment, exemplary school districts, major medical centers, institutions of higher education, well-managed

Trust | Experience | Integrity

Adrienne Hughes BROKER | OWNER Adrienne’s in-depth experience as a real estate broker is complemented with firsthand, practical knowledge as both a real estate investor and landlord. A life-long Austin-area resident, Adrienne has a thorough

understanding of the neighborhoods throughout the city and surrounding areas. She looks forward to helping you sell your current home, buy your next home, or both!

512-810-0185 | Adrienne@Hughes-and-Company.com | www.Hughes-and-Company.com

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We ensure every home we build is as unique as the family who lives there.

1. Lakeline Center Townhomes from the mid $200s

2. Enclave at Highland Horizon from the mid $300s

3. Highland Horizon from the mid $400s

4. The Village at Wells Branch from the mid $200s

5. Pearson Place from the low $500s

6. Twin Creeks from the low $800s

7. Parkwest Estates from the mid $300s

8. The Ranch at Brushy Creek from the mid $400s

9. Rancho Sienna from the mid $300s

10. Teravista from the mid $300s

11. Palmera Ridge from the upper $300s

12. Falcon Pointe from the mid $300s

13. Carmel Creek prices coming soon

14. Oaks at San Gabriel prices coming soon

15. Bryson prices coming soon

CalAtlanticHomes.com

Prices, plans and terms are effective on the date of publication and subject to change without notice. Map is not to scale. Depictions of homes or other features are artist conceptions. Hardscape, landscape and other items shown may be decorator suggestions that are not included in the purchase price and availability may vary. CAAUS119

FUN FACT No. 01

The Heritage Oak Tree, a 400-year-old live oak, is located in Cedar Park, Texas. Each December the tree is decorated with over 30,000 lights.

It is fifty-seven feet tall and has a spread of over eighty feet.

communities and award-winning park systems. It offers an outstanding quality of life in an urban, small-town or country setting.

Communities

Starting in the middle of the southern border of Williamson County, there is a thick concentration of people, but this thins out as you progress outward to the borders of the county. The communities range from the urban frenzy of Austin, which spills into Williamson County from the south, to the city of Round Rock, to smaller cities like Cedar Park and Georgetown, to charming towns like Leander, Taylor and Hutto, to rural villages, and beyond to vast open spaces of ranch and farmland. The following is a brief description of just a few of the places people live in Williamson County.

Cedar Park Cedar Park is on the northern edge of Austin and features 47 city parks and 22 miles of trails. But it’s a bustling high-tech employer hub too, with a median age of 34 years, 44.1 percent with a bachelor’s degree or higher and an average household income of $99,348. Cedar Park offers high quality of life, with low cost of living.

Georgetown Georgetown, the county seat, was founded about 170 years ago and is home to the most beautiful town square in Texas as well as the highly respected 16

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Southwestern University and the active retirement community of Sun City.

With a city government that keeps infrastructure and the transportation system ahead of growth and encourages business, over 650 jobs have been added to the city in each of the last eight years.

Hutto Hutto is the only town in America to adopt the hippo as its mascot, and there is now an entire herd of concrete hippos outside of local homes, businesses and buildings in a show of community solidarity. Once a sleepy town 30 miles from downtown Austin, Hutto is now home to many jobs and the Eastern Williamson County Higher Education Center.

Jarrell The small community of Jarrell (about 38 miles north of Austin’s downtown) offers a cost of living that is about 10 percent lower than the national average, quality public schools and wide open spaces where you can grow a garden and raise a family.

Round Rock In recent years, the city of Round Rock has received the following national accolades: 4th safest city, 3rd best city to raise a family, 4th most affordable city and 12th best city for retirement, which is why it was ranked 9th fastest-growing city in America. With a population of around 100,000 residents,

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Sheila Evans REALTOR® 512-876-5216

Paula Brent REALTOR® 512-818-4232

Put our combined 50+ years of experience in selling Real Estate to work for You! We live, work, and play in Williamson County.

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WILLIAMSON COUNTY VS. AUSTIN The entire area is appealing and many people are discovering that.

Businesses are relocating to both the city of Austin and its surrounding communities and are bringing in employees or offering jobs to the locals. The state capital and Williamson County are right beside each other and both offer wonderful opportunities for exciting and rewarding work. They are both full of excellent resources for raising a family as well. So, what’s different?

If you’re thinking of moving into this dynamic area, why would you choose Austin over Williamson County, or Williamson County over Austin?

Austin is more crowded. The population is almost a million people who live together in a density of over 3,300 people per square mile. Austin is busier, with the State Capitol, University of Texas and thousands of companies working in technology, manufacturing, management and life science. The city of Austin has an extremely low unemployment rate and a healthy job-growth rate. Austin is funkier. Locals like to “keep Austin weird,” celebrating home-grown businesses and their own personal expression. The city’s roots are steeped in an artistic, rebel vibe that fuels a fabulous food and magnificent music scene - it’s the Music Capital of the World. Austin is more religious and less republican. Just over half of the population attends church regularly and almost two-thirds vote for democrats.

Austin roadways are congested. By many measurements, the city has some of the worst traffic in the nation. Austin is booming, and the roads and public transportation infrastructure are struggling to keep up with all the new drivers and riders. Rather than having several or even many employment centers like other Texas cities do, students and employees flock to Austin’s core, which consists of downtown, the University of Texas and the Capitol; here 18 percent of all jobs are located. The major thoroughfares, I-35 and Loop 1 (or Mopac), were constructed years ago and are full; plus, Austin is the only major city in the U.S. with only one interstate passing through it. According to AustinTexasInsider.com, an Austin commuter with a 30-minute trip to work will endure 83 hours of traffic delays each year. During rush hour, traffic delays add about 34 minutes to a one-hour trip, which does not take into account bad weather or accidents.

But just north and beyond the crowd is Williamson County, where life is easier, which means: not as much traffic.

Roadways are less congested in Williamson County, because there are more of them, and they are newer. Plus, there are just fewer people – 373 people per square mile. Housing prices are lower here too. The average price of a four-bedroom/two-full-bath home in Austin is $362,030. The same house in Cedar Park is $304,574, $302,110 in Georgetown and $268,211 in Round Rock.

Both the city of Austin and Williamson County enjoy a relatively temperate climate, a scenic environment, excellent educational opportunities and easy access to jobs. But in Williamson County, the cost of living is lower, spaces are wider and outdoor escapes are closer. If you’re looking for life lived more gently, explore your options in Williamson County.

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Round Rock is not just a cool Austin suburb; it is a dynamic city with an exciting cultural scene, a commitment to youth sports and the worldwide headquarters of Dell. One of the best-managed cities in the state, Round Rock maintains a high quality of life in the face of rapid development.

Sun City Sun City in Georgetown is an age-restricted community where residents can drive golf carts on the streets. The development will ultimately offer 7,500 houses for people who may be choosing their first home after retirement.

With many amenities and activities, residents don’t have to slow down just because they’re retired.

In Williamson County, newcomers have choices. There are stunning new residential developments with all the latest features and amenities, established tree-lined neighborhoods and quaint historic homes. But there are also working and gentlemen’s ranches, farms, and tracts with water frontage or hilltop views. You can have a backyard on the 18th green or a smart home with a golf cart in the garage. There are masterplanned communities with handsome custom homes and communities of the year. And there are lots for sale of a half an acre to hundreds of acres.

But all are situated in a setting of natural beauty with easy access to work, school and play.

Business and Economy

Many employees in Williamson County don’t have to commute to Austin. Large employers and other businesses have transformed Williamson County into a dynamic self-sustaining community with less dependency on its big southern neighbor. Since establishing its worldwide headquarters in Round Rock, Dell, Inc. has led the way in the development of the high-tech sector of the county, which now also includes NXP Semiconductors and Emerson. Many other business sectors are represented in the county

A kayaker in Cedar Park enjoys some solitude on the water.

too, including agriculture and agribusiness, manufacturing and assembly, oil and drilling, government and education, tourism, construction, real estate and health care. Major retail and commercial developments have been appearing, including the Rivery in Georgetown, the Premium Outlet Mall, the IKEA-area retail development and the La Frontera in Round Rock. In addition, two new colleges and two new hospitals have opened in the last five years. All are significant economic contributors to the robust economy.

and airports assures ready movement of people and goods. The area boasts low unemployment rates, reasonable wages, high standards of living, but low cost of living, little crime and low taxes.

Williamson County is pro-business.

There are large tracts of land available for the development of sprawling corporate campuses, and a highly educated and youthful population lives nearby. An efficient transportation infrastructure of high-speed toll roads, freeways, railroads

Business is booming in Williamson County!

Employment opportunities are drawing people in from all over the U.S., and they’re choosing to live in Williamson County.

The excellent school system, from Pre-K through a variety of colleges, is the perfect partnership to build the future of

P HOTO COU RTESY OF WCL I FE

Williamson County. When you add the excellent quality of life, cost of living, and charm of the locals, you will look no further for your forever home.

Education Learning is a priority in Williamson County, which boasts a highly educated population. According to the 2014 Census, of residents 25 and older, 89 percent are high-school graduates, and 34 percent have college degrees. The county has

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Business is booming in Williamson County! Employment opportunities are drawing people in from all over the U.S., and they’re choosing to live in Williamson County.

15 independent school districts and over 170 public schools that offer education from pre-kindergarten to twelfth grade.

All Texas public schools are rated by the Texas Education Agency which oversees curriculum standards and college and career readiness. Public schools in the area offer a wide range of programs, extra-curricular activities, advanced academics, college courses, and even vocational, technical and career training.

In addition, charter schools operate to provide flexible education to meet the needs of individual students and encourage innovation in education. They are free and provide the same academic and financial accountability as public school districts.

Williamson County has 11 college preparatory or special mission charter schools.

There are also many private and parochial schools for children in the area.

As far as advanced educational opportunities, the county is home to many institutions of higher learning.

Austin Community College (in Cedar Park and Round Rock), Texas A&M in Hutto, Texas State Technical College in Hutto and Taylor, Temple Junior College in Hutto and Taylor, National American University and Southwestern University in Georgetown are all located in the county.

Health

It’s good for you to be in Williamson County, which, once again, was ranked as one of the healthiest in Texas. Of the 243 counties measured, Williamson County was second in health factors which measure education, housing, crime, employment, unhealthy behaviors and exercise, and fourth overall, based on length of life and quality of daily physical and mental health.

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too. Seton Medical Center Williamson is the largest hospital in the county, providing unique and advanced features like a healing garden, state-of-the-art technology and a dedicated women’s center. Cedar Park Regional Medical Center is a new $125 million medical center serving western Williamson County with a full-service hospital, physician offices, labs and diagnostic services. St. David’s Georgetown Hospital is an acute-care hospital with intensive care, 24-hour emergency services, inpatient rehabilitation and outpatient therapy. The hospital is now a nationally certified Chest Pain Center, allowing more rapid assessment and treatment of cardiovascular and stroke patients.

Getting Around

Choosing alternative transportation and combining more than one mode helps us all get around and out more efficiently. Bus and bike, park and ride, rail, or a combination - all are available in Williamson County. The county maintains a network of approximately 1,400 miles of county roads that cross an area of 1,124 square miles and connect to state highways and freeways. The area’s major ones are I-35, State Highways 45, 130, Loop 1, US Highway 183 and 183A. With the population of Williamson County projected to hit 2 million by 2050, it’s good to know that county and transportation officials continue to plan and add new transportation options to keep Williamson County moving.

MetroRail offers comfortable and reliable train service between the city of Leander and downtown Austin along the 26-mile line. The Downtown Austin Station is conveniently located outside the Austin Convention Center on 4th Street. Additional lines are being planned to connect downtown Austin to other Williamson County communities over the next few years.

» AN OVERVIEW OF WILLIAMSON COUNTY Beginning August of 2017, Capital Metro will begin transit services in Round Rock, with three new routes in and around Round Rock connecting to Tech Ridge and to the Howard Metro Rail Station. City officials and Capital Metro partnered to provide real transportation alternatives for Williamson County. “We’re proud

of our partnerships with the cities and agencies in the region and are thrilled to be able to provide public transit for the people of Round Rock,” said Capital Metro President/CEO Linda Watson.

Capital Metro has also been working with the city of Georgetown to expand their

public transit options within Georgetown.

The collaboration is called Go Geo, which is the city’s new fixed-route bus system that is also scheduled to begin August of 2017. The system’s launch will be a pretty historic day for the city, as the routes will enable residents to easily move through and around Georgetown to run simple errands or even commute to work.

Other public transportation options in Williamson County are offered through the Capital Area Rural Transportation System, known by locals as CARTS. They operate more than sixty buses from seven transit stations located throughout Williamson County. Fixed-route service is available to anyone in the service area, and CARTS also provides curb-to-curb service, also known as on-call service, for mobility-impaired individuals and individuals in need of special assistance in the CARTS service area.

C H O O S E I T.

We build in great locations

L O V E I T.

Our home designs are trending

L I V E I T.

Take advantage of our specials!

HOMES READY FOR IMMEDIATE MOVE-IN!

New homes from the $200s-$700s ScottFelderHomes.com 512-308-6826

Visit soon to get the Felder feeling of buying a new home!

At Scott Felder Homes, we strive to create a seamless home buying process that allows you to match the best locations in Williamson County, your home and your lifestyle. The fact that we are an ELEVEN TIME Home Builder of the Year award winner speaks volumes on our ability to achieve this goal.

A B R A NT E S • B L A C K H AW K • B RY S O N • CA B A L L O RA N CH G R E AT W O O D • N O R T H W O O D S AT AV E RY RA N CH O A K S AT S A N G A B R I E L • S A N TA RITA RA N CH V I L L A G E AT L E A N D E R S TAT ION

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Austin Bergstrom International Airport is the major air hub in the area, but several private and public airports, including Georgetown Municipal Airport and Taylor Municipal Airport, serve the residents of Williamson County.

Things to Do

Visitors and locals gather for celebrations like Round Rock’s Pioneer Days Festival or Music on the Square summer concerts in Georgetown. They enjoy softball or tennis at the Williamson County Regional Park or play a round of golf at any of the many courses in the area. They drop deep inside the earth to discover dramatic formations and prehistoric fossils at the Inner Space Cavern. They taste an awardwinning drop or get away for a weekend at a local winery. Residents can also take advantage of the scenic topography, sparkling lakes and gurgling streams to boat, hike, hunt, fish, cycle, rock climb and gather with friends for a picnic.

The arts are also celebrated throughout Williamson County, which each year sees many festivals, performances and experiences. Galleries, museums and exhibitions also occur year-round and in

Listing Agent | Buyers Agent | Relocation Specialist

TALLEYREALESTATE.COM

Laura Kiker Realtor®

512-876-4741 | Laura@TalleyRealEstate.com

SINGLE FAMILY | FARM & RANCH | CONDO |NEW CONSTRUCTION | INVESTMENT

I don’t just sell Williamson County, I live here!

Moving should be smooth and easy the reality is, it is neither. Whether you are trying to sell your existing home or purchase a new home, the words “Smooth & Easy” do not come to mind. Instead, what comes to mind are words like, “stress, money, decisions and time.”

With over 10 years in the industry, I can

honestly say, “I love what I do!” My promise to you is to change your buying experience. My goal is to bring you to the closing table with a team of experts that will work hard to make your buying experience “Smooth & Easy.”

While we are at it, let’s have some fun!

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» AN OVERVIEW OF WILLIAMSON COUNTY many locations. And while it’s easy to stay at home and enjoy excellent creations, crafts and concerts, locals also travel down the road to take advantage of Austin’s world-class art and music scene.

Georgetown's historic square never disappoints.

Shopping and Dining

There’s plenty of stuff to buy in Williamson County. From boutiques to department stores, markets to malls, supermarkets to superstores, you can find it here. The family-friendly Premium Outlets at Round Rock consists of 125 stores with 25 percent to 65 percent off everyday prices and has become a popular shopping destination.

The eclectic and quaint shops around Georgetown’s historic square offer art, antiques, artisan crafts and more. The numerous malls across the county house a collection of national retailers and restaurants. And there are many farmers markets held on a variety of days in numerous locations for local produce and products.

P HOTO C OU RTESY OF WCL I FE

The wide range of restaurants in Williamson County will please every palate, preference and pocketbook. You will find eateries that serve traditional Chinese, Southern, and down-home cooking. There are places that dish out Asian Fusion, Irish Pub food, German meals, French confections and Italian fare. Plus, you can find Tex-Mex, Cajun/Creole and barbeque.

Here, you can enjoy restaurants that grow their own menu items or source local produce. There are chefs who are creating works of art and cooks sharing recipes handed down from their mothers and grandmothers. The eclectic enthusiasm for all things to eat and a practically year-round growing season mean it’s easy to enjoy a fresh and wonderful meal.

Active Adults and Senior Living

Seniors can be as active as they want in Williamson County, as the weather allows for outdoor activities year-round. The Sun City development in Georgetown offers golf, games and good times for people over 55 – the ones who may have stopped working and are ready to play. There are also a wide variety of senior living apartments, and assisted living and full-care manors and facilities.

Getting Settled

Many people have recently moved into Williamson County - the U.S. Census indicates it has grown by 20 percent over the last five years – and more are coming. Probably a couple of excited children are rushing to call their bedroom in their brand-new house right now. So, the companies, services and systems for moving in, sorting out and setting up are all in place. In this guide, you’ll find the information and contacts you’ll need for relocation services, utilities and local laws to help you get settled as quickly and painlessly as possible.

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Loan options for each of life’s little steps

Ken Walker

Branch Manager | NMLS# 265983

512.656.8463 (cell) Ken.Walker@snmc.com snmc.com/KenWalker

Turning Houses into Homes™ SecurityNational Mortgage Company 1 Chisholm Trail Road, #210 Round Rock, TX 78681 Branch NMLS# 867372 Office: 512.244.1124

This is not a commitment to make a loan. Loans are subject to borrower and property qualifications. Contact loan officer listed for an accurate, personalized quote. Interest rates and program guidelines are subject to change without notice. SecurityNational Mortgage Company is an Equal Housing Lender. Company NMLS# 3116 SNMC1016MISC941

WILLIAMSON COUNTY:

OPEN FOR BUSINESS Texas is full of friendly people who welcome business. The state has a fair and competitive tax structure and no individual or corporate income tax. For the 13th straight year, hundreds of CEOs surveyed by Chief Executive named Texas the best state for business.

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W I L L I AMS ON COU N TY COU RTHOU S E I N G EORG ETOW N . PH OTO C O URT ESY O F WC L I F E

Deep in the heart of Texas lies Williamson County, uniquely situated to capitalize on major transportation thoroughfares and accessibility to the largest consumer bases in Texas; it is no more than four hours by car to Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio and Austin. Williamson County is close to the state capital and appeals to business owners and developers whose employees can take advantage of top-notch schools, a relatively low cost of living, but a high standard of living. So, Williamson County welcomes newcomers every day.

Despite the explosive growth, all Williamson County communities have shown thoughtful, visionary planning in getting ready to welcome their new neighbors. Town councils and city governments have been monitoring growth, ensuring an infrastructure that continues to accommodate, and actively seeking out the companies and industries that will further enhance their already livable communities.

Getting Around

Folks in Williamson County need to move: get to work; pick up some groceries; take in a softball game or just drop a line in Lake Georgetown. Before the added stress (and cars) of many more neighbors made getting around impossible, the Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority (CTRMA) was created to improve the transportation system in Williamson and Travis Counties. Understanding that congestion is bad for the environment, the economy, public safety and quality of life, CTRMA initiated major road and highway projects to ensure a reliable transportation system for years to come.

Recent additions include 183A, an 11-mile toll road extending northward from RM 620 through Cedar Park and Leander. On the other side of I-35, and parallel to it, is the new State Highway 130 which eases commuter traffic on the interstate. Williamson County has many

road improvement projects in design or under construction. In addition, the city governments in the area continue to work to keep traffic flowing.

The mean commute time for driving workers in Williamson County is just under 27 minutes. Of course, the closer you live to Austin the less time you need to spend in the car – to a point. Some traffic in Austin has become so heavy that it’s faster to get into the city if you live outside of it.

There is also bus service to Austin and Williamson County destinations, and CapitalMetro runs trains from Austin to Leander and back.

Round Rock

The citizens of Round Rock decided that they didn’t want to be just a bedroom community to Austin, which lies to the south. They wanted a place where their children could receive an excellent education and then stay to work and raise their own families. So, the dynamic city leadership and chamber of commerce developed a strategy to target specific sectors: advanced manufacturing; clean energy; computer systems development; corporate offices, operations and support; destination retail; and healthcare and biotechnology. It worked. A range of businesses have selected Round Rock as the best place to set up shop. The world headquarters of Dell Technologies, WWW.WC L I F E. O R G

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» BUSINESS AND ECONOMY Emerson Process Management, Sears Teleserv, and Round Rock Premium Outlets are all here, as well as more than 4,000 other companies, large and small.

So, it’s easy to work in Round Rock, but it’s easy to play too. Because of its facilities for amateur, youth and recreational sports, Round Rock is the Sports Capital of Texas, making up part of the excellent quality of life offered here.

Georgetown This historic city located 26 miles from Austin’s city center is the perfect blend of old-town charm and modern city living.

Like all communities in Williamson County, it’s growing. Key to that growth is a business environment that means business. Not only does it have one of the lowest combined property tax rates in Central Texas, it also has one of the most technologically savvy workforces in

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FUN FACT No. 02

Georgetown is known as the Red Poppy Capital of Texas due to the red poppy wildflowers that are planted throughout the city. Georgetown celebrates their title yearly during their Red Poppy Festival, attracting 30,000 visitors annually.

the county. City leaders are dedicated to facilitating commerce, ensuring road and infrastructure capability and providing financial tools to help businesses succeed – this forward-thinking community has just announced plans to provide 100 percent renewable, clean energy to its customers.

There are over 3,300 businesses in this city of around 75,000 people and they include: Williamson County Government, Southwestern University, St. David’s Georgetown Hospital, Airborn Inc., Sun City Retirement Community, and Weslayan Homes.

Hutto

Perhaps no other town in Williamson County has grown as quickly as Hutto; its population has more than doubled four times in the last ten years. Why? Hutto has wonderful public schools, affordable housing, low crime and moderate taxes.

Also, the completion of State Highway 130 has meant rapid access to Austin.

Leander

There are about 50,000 people in Leander, but there is infrastructure to accommodate five times that many.

That’s how fast it’s growing, and that’s how foresighted the town planners are.

There are now more than 80 employers,

with over 1800 employees, representing diverse business operations from floriculture to defense contracting. Two major projects are underway here: an Austin Community College campus, which will serve 12,500 students, and St. David’s Hospital.

Just off that highway is the East Williamson County Education Center, an innovative, multi-institutional teaching center housing Texas State Technical College and Temple College and partnering with Texas A&M University to offer full bachelor and master’s degrees.

Coming soon is the Hutto Innovation Business Park, which will be more than 800,000 square feet of industrial business space in six buildings, the first phase of an ambitious plan to diversify the town’s economy.

Hutto is well situated, with excellent connections, rail service, highways and an airport just down the road.

It’s a welcoming community and a pro-business town.

Cedar Park

At the southern border of Williamson County and right next door to Austin, Cedar Park is a city beside a city, with all the amenities but none of the high prices and fewer of the hassles. This family-friendly place is tucked up against the Hill Country and offers desirable neighborhoods, a highly rated school system and pro-business environment. The people of Cedar Park tend to be young, educated, and they prefer to work close to home. Many new or relocating companies have made it possible for them to do that. The city encourages business with several performance-based financial incentive programs, and the top employers are in healthcare, drilling equipment manufacturing, electromagnetic and acoustic energy systems, software development and others. Cedar Park has been named a Family Circle “Best Town for Families.”

UNITED WE FIGHT. UNITED WE WIN. United Way of Williamson County fights for the health, education and financial stability of every person in every Williamson County community.

GIVE. ADVOCATE. VOLUNTEER. Learn more at www.unitedway-wc.org

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» BUSINESS AND ECONOMY Residents enjoy easy access to the Texas Hill Country and the less crowded western side of the lake district. But they can get to the city quickly too. Leander is served by the Metro Rail line, with direct access into the heart of Austin, and also a brand-new highway, (183A),

both of which provide the least congested commuter options.

Liberty Hill Between the north and south forks of the San Gabriel River and in the hills of the Shin Oak Ridge, is Liberty Hill,

33 miles northwest of Austin. The small ranching and farming village has disappeared, except in the preservation of many of the original downtown buildings and the warm, welcoming attitude of the locals. Quality of life is still a priority in Liberty Hill, and the town has excellent schools and charming, but cost-effective, housing options. What’s new is the opportunity. The town has grown to accommodate more than 65 primary employers in three areas: construction, metal fabrication and wood products manufacturing.

Taylor In the last eight years, two dozen companies have moved to or expanded in Taylor, generating about 300 jobs along the way. On the eastern side of Williamson County and 30 miles from Austin, the roots of Taylor business – agriculture and manufacturing – are still thriving here today. But now there is work in computer equipment and electronics, communications equipment, as well as inbound call centers and remote data centers.

Taylor’s knowledgeable workforce reflects the quality of education in the area, from the magnet high school to Temple College and Texas State Technical College.

Jarrell Jarrell was settled at the junction of an old stagecoach road and the Bartlett and Western rail line. Its location is still working for it. On I-35, 38 miles north of Austin, the town boasts affordable land prices and homes, excellent schools and easy access to bustling big-city amenities and soothing Hill Country retreats. Even though the town is growing and a variety of manufacturing and construction operations have moved in, Jarrell still maintains its laid-back lifestyle.

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THE WILLIAMSON COUNTY AREA’S

TOP EMPLOYERS There is room to breathe in the wide-open spaces of Williamson County, especially as you drive away from Austin.

Here, land is relatively less expensive than in big urban centers, and businesses can spread out, build the expansive campus of their dreams, and know that there is excellent infrastructure, efficient transportation networks and a highly educated, youthful workforce standing by, ready to come to work. And many companies are recognizing this.

Plus, locals love new business. The competitive

Right next door to Austin, within a few-hour drive to all the major markets in Texas, and handy to efficient road, railway and air-transportation systems, the county is well situated for work. Many institutions of higher learning either within Williamson County or right nearby mean that the population tends to be relatively educated and prepared for technical or professional jobs.

chambers of commerce welcome new members and

D EL L D IA MO ND IN R O U ND R O C K. PH OTO COURTESY OF WCLIFE

tax structure is helpful, and local governments are interested in attracting businesses that bring jobs and opportunities, so they offer incentives or streamlined application or approval processes.

People in the area are friendly to newcomers; help integrate new employees into the community.

And local communities reap the reward: businesses keep their citizens in interesting, often leading-edge work, sponsor little league teams, send their own children to local schools, shop locally, pay taxes and generally make the community better.

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 BUSINESS AND ECONOMY The discovery of Williamson County as a wonderful location to live and work by many employers in recent years has meant that jobs offered or added to the area tend to be in newer industries – high technology, especially computer or data related, medicine and education.

Of course, the new companies and their employees need buildings to work in, homes to live in and roads to get from one to the other, so construction, manufacturing and utility sectors are also expanding in the area. Rounding out quality-of-life necessities has meant that businesses in retail, real estate and entertainment have also opened or expanded.

Manufacturers worldwide, and serves customers in many industries, including: aerospace, energy, geophysical, industrial, instrumentation, marine, medical, military/defense, space exploration, storage/networking and telecommunications. With eight manufacturing plants in the U.S., one in Canada and another in the UK, the Corporate Headquarters are in Georgetown.

Assurant Field Services 101 West Louis Henna Blvd., #400, Austin, 78728; 512-467-1537 www.assurantmortgagesolutions.com This company is a leading provider of inspections, property preservation and support services, and works with mortgage lenders, servicers and others from first notice of default through disposition. Assurant Field Services focuses on reducing exposure to risk and preserving the value of homes for clients while maintaining healthy, stable neighborhoods in communities nationwide.

Here is a brief description of the top employers in Williamson County.

AirBorn, Inc. 3500 AirBorn Circle, Georgetown, 78626 512-863-5585; www.airborn.com AirBorn engineers and manufactures specialized connectors and electronic components for Original Equipment

Caring Home Health 504 Leander Road, Georgetown, 78626 512-863-4748; www.caring-homehealth.com

For individuals with decreased wellness, Caring Home Health can make life easier with outreach community programs. Their personal assistive services allow people to continue to live safely and independently. In addition to professional nursing staff who can provide medical assistance, personal care attendants can assist with bathing, dressing, light cleaning, meal preparation, shopping and much more.

Chasco Constructors 2801 East Old Settlers Blvd., Round Rock, 78665 512-244-0600; www.chasco.com Chasco Constructors is a progressive commercial general contracting and construction management firm committed to delivering the highest level of quality and services. The company is the largest volume Central Texas contractor that self-performs the

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Cedar Park Chamber of Commerce

1460 E. Whitestone Blvd. Suite 180

(512) 260-7800

www.cedarparkchamber.org

Florence Chamber of Commerce

301 Brewster Street or PO Box 201

(512) 635-5170

www.florencechamberofcommerce.org

Georgetown Chamber of Commerce

1 Chamber Way

(512) 930-3535

www.georgetownchamber.org

Hutto Area Chamber of Commerce

122 E. Street

(512) 759-4400

www.huttochamber.com

Jarrell Chamber of Commerce

PO Box 196

(512) 677-5501

www.jarrellcoc.com

Greater Leander Chamber of Commerce

100 N. Brushy or PO Box 556

(512) 259-1907

www.leandercc.org

Liberty Hill Chamber of Commerce

155 Hillcrest, Suite A or PO Box 586

(512) 548-6343

www.libertyhillchamber.org

Round Rock Chamber of Commerce

212 East Main St.

(512) 255-5805

www.roundrockchamber.org

Greater Taylor Chamber of Commerce

1519 N. Main St.

(512) 352-6364

www.taylorchamber.org

Thorndale Area Chamber of Commerce

120 S. Main St.

(512) 898-2523

www.thorndaletx.com

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majority of its work, and has a large fleet of heavy equipment, specialized work forces and master craftsmen.

100,000 employees, the worldwide headquarters are in Round Rock, where 13,000 come to work each day.

Cedar Park Regional Medical Center 1401 Medical Parkway Cedar Park, 78613; 512-528-7000 www.cedarparkregional.com

Emerson Process Management 1100 W. Louis Henna Blvd., Round Rock, 78681; 512-835-2190 www.emerson.com

This 93-bed facility provides complete inpatient, outpatient, surgical and emergency care. Among the many awards and accreditations that the hospital has received is the Best Hospital Award (five-years running) from Hill Country News. More than 500 healthcare professionals work to make this hospital a place of healing, caring and connection for patients and families in Williamson County.

A business unit of manufacturing and technology giant Emerson Electric Co., Emerson Process Management provides support for customers in fields like oil and gas and is a leading supplier of process management products and solutions. The Integrated Operations Center, which employs 875 people in Round Rock, helps customers learn how to remotely manage operations and collaborate with experts. It also houses a consulting and engineering practice, along with a product testing lab.

Coreslab Structures 15916 Anderson Mill Road Cedar Park, 78613 512-250-0755; www.coreslab.com Coreslab Stuctures produces precast/ prestressed concrete products and is a major supplier of structural, architechtural and hollow core solutions to markets in Canada and the U.S. With 17 facilities across North America, the company is a leader in construction innovation, structural design and sustainable practices. The 260 people at the Cedar Park facility build products geared toward the parking garage, architectural cladding and total precast building solutions.

ETS-Lindgren (EMC Test Systems) 1301 Arrow Point Drive Cedar Park, 78613 512-531-6400; www.ets-lindgren.com ETS-Lindgren provides customers solutions with the ability to detect, measure, shield and control energy – electromagnetic, magnetic and acoustic.

A leading supplier of engineered products for growing industrial and commercial markets around the world, they provide solutions for automotive, defense, EMC, EMP/HEMP/IEMI, Health & Safety, Medical Testing, MRI shielding, RF microwave and wireless.

Dell, Inc. 1 Dell Way, Round Rock, 78682 512-338-4400; www.dell.com

Michael Angelo’s Gourmet Food 200 Michael Angelo Way, Austin, 78728 512-218-3500; www.michaelangelos.com

What started as one man building computers for his classmates in a UT dorm room has become a global technology leader that is now number four on Forbes’ list of largest private companies in America. It provides a full range of computers, software and network solutions for the consumer, education, enterprise and government sectors. With dozens of offices across the globe, and more than

This family-owned company has been creating the highest quality Italian entrees in the freezer aisle for 30 years.

Using recipes brought over from Sicily and crafted in a home kitchen, all no-compromise products are made from ingredients that come from a garden or grocery store, not a chemistry lab. There are more than 7,500 different kinds of tomatoes; only one is good enough for Michael Angelo’s.

National Oilwell Varco 1200 Cypress Creek Road Cedar Park, 78613 512-340-5000, www.nov.com Through business innovation, product creation and service delivery, National Oilwell Varco powers the industry that powers the world. NOV designs, manufactures and sells equipment and components used in oil and gas drilling, production operations and field services for the oil and gas industry. The Williamson County operation, called Cedar Park DDS and Rig, is a wellbore and DDS plant.

Round Rock Premium Outlets 4401 North I-35, Round Rock, 78664 512-863-6688 www.premiumoutlets.com/round-rock Round Rock Premium Outlets is a familyfriendly outdoor mall located off I-35 in Round Rock. This open-air center is home to 125 stores specializing in women's, men's, family and sporting apparel, fine jewelry and designer creations, all at 25 percent-65 percent off everyday prices. In addition, there are restaurants and a movie theater to make the shopping day complete.

Round Rock Premium Outlets was opened in 2006 and employs about 800 people.

Scott & White Healthcare 2401 S. 31st Street, Temple, 76508 254-724-2111; www.sw.org Located in Temple, the Scott & White Medical Center is a 636-bed specialty care and teaching hospital and a Level 1 Trauma Center, the only one between Dallas and Austin. It offers advanced imaging, a da Vinci Surgical System and a top-ranked NICU center. The 750 professionals at Scott & White are carrying on the tradition started by their founders by placing patient- and family-centered care above all else.

Sears Teleserv 1300 Louis Henna Blvd., Round Rock, 78664; 512-248-7700 www.searsroundrock.com

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» BUSINESS AND ECONOMY FUN FACT No. 03

First Texas Bank's roots date back to 1898, when they opened their first branch on the Georgetown Square, in the building that is now home to the Williamson County Museum. When banks started being chartered by the state, they were issued charter number 17 in 1905. This is now the second oldest charter remaining in Texas.

Sears Holdings Corporation has grown to be a leading global integrated retailer that focuses on seamlessly connecting the digital and physical shopping experiences to serve more than 55 million members – wherever, whenever and however they want to shop. The call center in Round Rock has multiple lines of business to allow for security and growth of the company, and it employs 1500 people.

Seton Medical Center Williamson 201 Seton Parkway, Round Rock, 78665; 512-324-4000 www.seton.net/locations/ seton-medical-center-williamson/ Seton Medical Center Williamson is a general medical and surgical hospital with 143 beds. Here, innovative design elements come together with leading-edge technology to create a peaceful and warm environment in which patients and families can heal and find comfort. In addition to excellent medical care, patients will find a healing garden, waterscape, nature-inspired interiors, specially selected art and a free-standing chapel with a reflection room. It was ranked High Performing in the U.S. News & World Report.

Southwestern University 1001 E University Ave. Georgetown, 78626 512-863-6511; www.southwestern.edu The oldest university in Texas has been engaging minds and transforming lives for 175 years. Southwestern University is a private liberal arts university with about 1500 students. In 2016, it was ranked the 36

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#1 undergraduate liberal arts college in Texas by Forbes and is always included in the list of Colleges that Change Lives.

Healthgrades and earned a national distinction for patient safety from the Leapfrog Group.

St. David’s Georgetown Hospital 2000 Scenic Dr., Georgetown, 78626; 512-943-3000 www.stdavids.com/locations/ st-davids-georgetown-hospital

Sun City (Del Webb) 1501 Sun City Blvd., Georgetown, 78633 877-627-9700; www.delwebb.com

St. David’s HealthCare includes seven of the area’s leading hospitals and is one of the largest health systems in Texas.

St. David’s Georgetown Hospital, an accredited full-service 98-bed hospital, has an intensive care unit, a 24-hour major and minor emergency department, inpatient and outpatient surgery, acute inpatient rehabilitation and outpatient therapy and a state-of-the-art pulmonary program. It has been an important community healthcare resource in Williamson County for 60 years.

St David’s Round Rock Medical Center 2400 Round Rock Ave. Round Rock, 78681 512-341-1000; www.stdavids.com St. David’s Round Rock Medical Center provides wide-ranging health services to residents of Williamson and surrounding counties. Part of the St. David’s HealthCare, the professionals at this 171-bed hospital offer leading-edge care in cardiac services, emergency & trauma, surgical services, orthopedics & joint replacement, and maternity & newborn care. In 2016, the hospital received the Distinguished Hospital Award for Clinical Excellence from

Del Webb is building new homes for active adults aged 55+, and one of his more recent communities is in Georgetown. Sun City offers three world-class golf courses, two state-of-the-art fitness centers, outdoor sports fields, a lakeside amphitheater, a resort-style pool and more. In addition, there are more than 25 clubs and special interest groups so that new neighbors can easily become old friends.

TECO Westinghouse Motor Company 5100 North I-35 Round Rock, 78681; 512-255-4141 www.tecowestinghouse.com With over 100 years of experience in motor design and application, TECO- Westinghouse Motor Company is a premier supplier of AC and DC motors and generators used to drive pumps, fans, compressors, rolling mills, grinders, crushers and a variety of other rugged applications. Clients work in petroleum, chemical, pulp, paper, mining, marine propulsion, steel, electric utility and other industries all over the world. The 300 people in Round Rock Controls Division assemble Variable Frequency Drive products and distribute motor soft-start control products.

Texas Guaranteed Student Loans 301 Sundance Parkway Round Rock, 78681 512-219-5700; www.tg.org With a nearly 40-year track record as a student loan guarantor, TG has guaranteed over $74 billion in loans to more than 4 million students and their parents. In addition, the company has a strong philanthropic heritage, providing grants to colleges, universities and research groups that focus on improving student outcomes, especially to underserved students, families and institutions. The 700 or so employees at their facility in Round Rock work to provide trusted guidance to people so that they can make informed decisions and improve their lives.

Toppan Photomask 400 Texas Avenue, Round Rock, 78664 512-310-6000; www.photomask.com

A global company, Toppan is headquartered in Round Rock. It has a heritage of innovation rooted in decades of experience, combining materials, knowledge and mask-making expertise with a deep understanding of lithography to produce leading-edge products and innovative solutions. Their network of scientists and engineers provides customers with the right technology when and where it is needed.

Wayne Pump Manufacturing 3814 Jarrett Way, Austin 78728 512-388-8311; www.wayne.com Wayne is a global fuel dispenser manufacturer for retail and fleet application.

The company offers a complete line of pumps that are designed for industry and homeowners, including watering systems, sump and battery backup systems, sewage pumps, and pool and lawn devices. Since selling their first pump in 1891, Wayne has

been leading the industry with quality and innovation. The Austin-area location has over 500 employees.

Wesleyan Homes, Inc. 265 White Heron Drive Georgetown, 78626; 512-868-1205 www.wesleyanhomes.org Wesleyan Homes provide supportive care and services to senior adults. With two campuses, they can accommodate many levels of care from independent living, assisted living, memory care and rehabilitation to hospice. They are a faith-based organization that puts their residents first, helping them to be as independent and healthy as possible with a comprehensive wellness program, including activities, social programming, carefully planned menus, rehabilitation and fitness. Wesleyan Homes has multiple locations across the Georgetown area.

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V E R T I S E R A D

SPOTLIGHT 

BUSINESS



TOYOTA OF CEDAR PARK ESTABLISHED 2017

Toyota of Cedar Park is a brand-new, state-of-the-art dealership located at 183A and New Hope Drive, across from the HEB Center, in Cedar Park, Texas. They love calling Williamson County home, and are sure you will too. Below are a few facts about their facility:

1

They sit on 20 beautiful acres in the Texas Hill Country.

2

They are a LEED Certified Facility and care deeply about conservation and the environment.

3

Their rain catcher (water cistern) collects condensation from the air conditioning units on the roof, and they use that water to irrigate the landscaping on the property.

4

All the materials used to build the dealership came from within 500 miles of their location, so they are dedicated to the community.

5

They offer an upscale boutique inside the dealership that stocks 90 percent of its products from Texas-based companies.

6

The art hanging throughout the dealership is from Texas artisans.

7

They have a manual transfer switch for a generator that allows them to be a safe haven for the community, in case of an emergency.

8

A portion of every car sold goes to the Leander School District, because they believe in supporting children and those that have dedicated their lives to teaching them how to be successful.

9

The sales and service processes in their store are 95 percent paperless transactions, showing their committment to staying green.

10

Their dealer, Julie M. Herrera, is a 3rd-generation Texan and is passionate about outstanding customer service. With that in mind, she added an extra-large kids zone, a grassy area and delicious treats for your furry friends, and a café that serves Starbuck’s coffee, sandwiches and snacks... customer service at its finest.

As you can see, much thought and consideration went into the design of Toyota of Cedar Park. They like to say that "All 80,000 square feet were BUILT FOR YOU!" They want you, their neighbors, to feel at home, to always be greeted with a smile, to have your time and intelligence respected and to have a dealership you are proud to do business with. They believe you deserve to drive a vehicle that makes you happy, that makes you feel safe, that has the latest technology and meets all your driving needs.

In addition to having over 600 vehicles to choose from, their first-class service center will make everyone feel like a VIP. They use the newest technology available, their technicians are Master Certified, the service advisors that greet you are Five Star, Texas Friendly, and they share a video with you that shows the overall health of your Toyota. They also offer a complimentary alignment check, multi-point inspection and car wash with every visit to their service center. This all goes back to their committment to customer experience.

For more information about Toyota of Cedar Park visit www.toyotaofcedarpark.com to browse inventory, schedule a service appointment, meet the staff and view client testimonials.

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YOU'RE GOING TO

We have over 140 Master-Trained, Texas-Friendly Experts ready to serve you. This dealership was Built For You, with 40 service bays, a cafe serving Starbucks coffee, incredibly comfortable lounges and an upscale gift boutique. Plus, with every service you receive a complimentary carwash, alignment check and multipoint inspection video.

5600 183A AT NEW HOPE DRIVE 512-379-7575 www.toyotaofcedarpark.com

THIS PLACE!

STATE OF THE ART FACILITY

AWESOME KIDS ZONE

EXCELLENCE IN

EDUCATION Williamson County is home to several large and successful school districts.

There is also a fair number of rural school districts in the eastern and southeastern portions of the county. Williamson County typically has great scores and post-secondary success ratings per district. There are several opportunities for post-secondary education that are both university quality as well as trade specific. Overall, the quality of education available in Williamson County is among the best in the state.

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S OU THW ESTE RN U N I V E RS I TY I N G EORG ETOW N . PH OTO C O URT ESY O F WC L I F E

Williamson County is home to 15 school districts, in part or in whole. The largest school district of the county is Round Rock ISD, with just under 50,000 students. Round Rock has an education standard that is top-notch. Round Rock ISD is impressive in that they maintained an 87 percent passing rate on the STAAR test. This achievement is quite notable, given the size of the district. For the county overall, the STAAR test scores were high for each district. The lowest STAAR test score was 81 percent. This speaks to the commitment to education in this county.

There are several large districts in Williamson County in addition to Round Rock ISD. Liberty Hill, Hutto and Georgetown are all large school districts that are high-achieving and maintain low student-to-teacher ratios.

Williamson County also has a great public school system for rural dwellers. School districts such as Hutto, Burnet Consolidated, Taylor, Thorndale and Thrall all provide the perfect setting for this education. In addition to their top-quality agriculture programs, these districts take into consideration economic differences that this area has in relation to the larger districts. Test scores for these districts are strong and suggest a commitment to growth and planning for the future of their curriculum.

Extracurricular activities are essential to not only Williamson County, but for Texas as a whole. Students in Williamson County have the opportunity to participate in school-organized football, baseball, softball, basketball, golf, volleyball, track and field, and wrestling. Many schools offer powerlifting, although it is not UIL sanctioned.

The University Interscholastic League (UIL) is the organizing body of school sports and activities for Texas public schools. Public schools in Texas must work closely with the UIL to ensure the eligible participation of athletes and proper management of athletic events. An infraction with the UIL can result in forfeiture of ineligible wins as well as penalties in future athletic profits and events.

Travel time and distance to schooling is something that every family should consider before moving into a new district. Williamson County is lucky enough to have Interstate 35 running through the center of the county. This means that transportation can happen at a fast rate in this portion of the county. While the trip WWW.WC L I F E. O R G

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Âť EDUCATION IN WILLIAMSON COUNTY over the last six school years. Each of these accidents was weather related and resulted in no serious injuries. This is a remarkable statistic for the public schools of Williamson County.

to school might take longer in the rural areas, the traffic is much less congested, and the districts' bus systems get the job done efficiently. Williamson County had only three reported bus accidents

LEARNING DIFFERENCES Special education is all about providing the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) to special education students. There are countless ways to do this in both public and private schools. Maintaining a consistent routine, softening harsh lights and having a flexible seating area in the learning space are all tactics that have been proven to assist in the classroom. It is crucial to understand that each child will react differently to certain stimuli, environments, procedures and techniques.

There are several centers in Williamson County that provide specialized instruction. These centers can assist with implementation of skills and procedures to maintain a successful classroom experience for every student, in any school.

Here is a list of resources, including Special Education contact information for Williamson County school districts: Children’s Autism Center 1516 E. Palm Valley Blvd., Bldg. C Round Rock, 78664 512-733-2800; www.cactexas.com Elgin ISD Special Education 900 W 2nd St., Elgin, 78621 512-281-9737; www.elginisd.net Georgetown ISD Special Education 603 Lakeway Drive Georgetown, 78628; 512-943-5008; www.georgetownisd.org/Page/398 Hutto ISD Special Education 200 College St., Hutto, 78634 512-759-3771; www.hipponation.org/domain/143 Jarrell ISD Special Education 312 N. 5th St., Jarrell, 76537 512-746-2259 www.jarrelisd.org 42

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A crucial stat that really speaks to the overall education philosophy of the area is the Postsecondary Readiness scores that the state of Texas gives out each August. For all of Williamson County, the overall average score in the category was an impressive 82 percent.

When compared to other counties, specifically Tarrant and Dallas Counties, the Williamson County number is nearly 8 percent higher. This shows the commitment that the public school districts, and teachers in particular, have taken in preparing students for college and beyond. Williamson County consistently turns out students that go on to a college-level education.

Williamson County is also home to many highly-rated private schools, with options available for students of all ages. If you're in search of the area's top-rated private early education centers, Round Rock and Georgetown are great places to start.

Reviews from families that have sent their children to these centers speak highly of not only the cognitive development of their children but also the social development.

Leander ISD Special Education 204 W. South St., or P.O. Box 218 Leander, 78646; 512-570-0340; www.leanderisd.org

There are several junior high and high school private school options in the area, each of which places special emphasis on lifelong learning opportunities and setting up the student for success post-high school.

Round Rock ISD Special Education 1311 Round Rock Ave. Round Rock, 78681 512-464-5000 www.roundrockisd.org

There are many trade school options in Williamson County, but there are two specific areas that Williamson County tends to showcase. Those areas are beauty colleges and agricultural career preparation schools. The agricultural schools focus on many areas such as welding, ranching, farming and electrician skills.

Taylor ISD Special Education 2809 North Dr., Taylor, 76574 512-352-5033; www.taylorisd.org Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired 1100 W. 45th St., Austin, 78756 512-454-8631 www.tsbvi.edu 2017-2018

The beauty colleges of the area are state-of-the-art. Georgetown and Round Rock have several beauty college openings each semester that have grown very popular and have jumpstarted the careers of thousands of students.

From Pre-K to Graduation

Taylor ISD is Growing Leaders for Tomorrow

Leader in Me Sweepstakes Bands Graduation Rate Consistently Surpasses Regional and State Averages High-Performing Early College High School State-Ranked Academic Decathlon State Champs in Pole Vault, Track and Powerlifting Numerous State Athletic Qualifiers FCCLA National Qualifier Color Guard National Champs

RELENTLESS IN THE PURSUIT OF EDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE

National Merit Scholars TSTC Tech-Connect Partnership Laptop Issued to Every High School Student New Athletic Complex Projected for 2017 Completion Free and Tuition-Based Pre-K After-School Programs Parent and Community Involvement

Visit us at TaylorISD.org 3101 North Main Street, Suite 104, Taylor, Texas 76574 | (512) 365-1391

» EDUCATION IN WILLIAMSON COUNTY Overall, Williamson County has much to offer in regard to education opportunities.

Education is an investment that the schools districts of Williamson County have made, as showcased by the improved infrastructure and overall facility growth of the area.

PUBLIC SCHOOLS Public education in Texas is currently in a state of change. This is a nationwide trend that is a result of people adapting to new technologies, newly researched strategies, and ever-advancing state testing standards. Understanding the overall concept for the education strategies used by teachers to benefit students in Texas is a crucial point for any parent.

Texas, like many other states, requires its teachers to follow pacing guides throughout the school year. This pacing guide is generated individually by each district, therefore making each district responsible for ensuring that teachers

WILLIA MS O N C O U NTY NEWC O ME R & RELOCATION GUIDE

Texas STAAR Test

The Texas state assessment test is called the STAAR test. The STAAR test is a standardized test that focuses on grade-level learning expectations, as well as secondary success and retention of previous knowledge. The STAAR test has also rendered a greater focus on district evaluations based on student performance on the test. As students enter into middle school, the STAAR test goes into specific content areas such as U.S. history, mathematics,

English and biology. These tests are implemented as the student progresses through high school.

The STAAR test district scores are one of the single biggest motivators for current teachers in Texas. Students are evaluated individually, and these individual scores are reported in comparison to the other test-takers in the district. These cumulative scores for a single dynamic are then compared across each county, region and statewide.

Schools are then scored on a 1- to 5-star rating, with 1 being the lowest score and 5 indicating highest achievement.

This overall score is broken down into 4 major categories. The first is Student Success Rate. This category looks at overall pass/fail numbers.

Districts have a state requirement to meet based on enrollment. Typically this number is between 55 and 65. The next category is Student Improvement Metric. Basically, this category examines a previous year's testing score for a student who may have failed or underachieved on that subject STAAR test. The student will have a year of classroom time to improve their score. When a student improves to a passing score, this category reflects that improvement. A high number in this metric show tremendous improvement and adaptation implementation in the classroom setting. The next category is Closing Performance Gaps. This category is very similar to the previous category; however, it focuses more on students who scored profoundly low on certain standards within a test. A marked improvement on this standard reflects in this score, both individually and as a district. The last category is Postsecondary Readiness. This category measures student preparedness for success in college, the workforce, job training programs, or the military.

These four categories are important for any parent moving into a district and can be readily accessed on www.tea.texas. gov/student.assessment/reports/. It is

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cover the required material in the required timeframe. The pacing guide is given to the teacher, and the teacher then has the freedom to adapt lesson plans and understanding of material with their own strategies. However, there is more to this than just a “cover this material by this date” strategy. To understand how your student will be taught over the course of a school year, it is important to understand the state testing for Texas.

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FUN FACT recommended that this be checked in May to June of each year, as that will be the most updated data.

Lastly, there are a few factors to take into consideration when looking at these scores from a parent's perspective. There are certain economic factors that are not figured into a STAAR test score. For example, a school district with relatively low funding will tend to score lower than a district that has high funding. This does not necessarily reflect the overall educational philosophy of a district but is a realistic problem in many public education districts. Also, a school that has a high enrollment will not have as big of improvement numbers as a smaller district. For instance, Round Rock ISD may show an improvement criteria of 30 percent, while Thorndale ISD may show a 35 percent improvement. Round Rock would need roughly 12,000 students across their district to show improvement based on state standards, while Thorndale ISD would only need 175 or so to show the same improvement. Enrollment numbers and economic factors per district are realistic factors that must be considered.

Texas Charter Schools

The Texas Legislature approved the establishment of charter schools in 1995, and the first public charter schools opened in the fall of 1996. Texas features a few main types of charter schools that each have different properties. For any parent considering the charter educational route, it is important to understand the difference of each.

Subchapter C Campus or Campus Program Charters are simply independent school districts that are not regulated in the same way as a public educational entity. There are benefits to this that include overall smaller classes and organizations, greater participation rates in extracurricular activities, and the prospect of outside, organized help in a charter setting.

Subchapter D Open-Enrollment Charters are the most common charter school type

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Leander High School was built in 1899, and for 99 years was the only high school in Leander, until the establishment of Cedar Park High School in 1998.

Leander Independent School District is now one of the fastest-growing school districts in Texas.

in Texas. The title explains this well, as this is not regulated by state boundaries and organized territory. In 2013, the State Board of Education authorized SB 2. Up until this point, the State Board of Education was the primary authority in this charter system. This is the basic school setting, with fewer state guidelines than public schools. The overall thought behind this is that it provides the teachers and administration with more room for innovation and flexibility throughout the curriculum plan. State law requires academic accountability but doesn’t push state standards into the lesson concepts as it does with public education.

Subchapter E University or Junior College Charters is a relatively common post-secondary education option. The same concept applies as it does with secondary charters from the previous category; however, this pertains to the college sector and the freedom from state restrictions that many state universities are faced with. The primary negative of this for many is the tuition price is typically higher compared to state-funded universities.

Texas Public Education Specifics

Overall, public education in Texas has much to offer. There are several regional aspects of public education in Texas that are highly beneficial to both students and parents alike.

Texas has long been known to have one of the best sets of state standards regarding agricultural education for its students.

While agriculture is an elective and

not a mandatory class in Texas, many students will have taken it at some point from middle school to high school. This provides a great pathway for building a foundation for students who wish to pursue this sort of career in the future.

For many colleges, having a Texas-based agricultural education is a standard that sets students apart.

When it comes to athletics, Texas is arguably the top state in the entire United States. Football programs are a focal point of almost every public school in Texas, where the gate and concession money at the home football games typically covers most of the yearly athletic expenditures across the district. With more athletes than ever wanting to pursue college scholarships in their sport, this is a crucial aspect of Texas public education that can’t be overlooked. In addition to districts investing in their football programs, many other sports are typically found at each high school and junior high in the state. These include volleyball, basketball, baseball, track and field, wrestling, and a growing powerlifting trend that is getting bigger each year. All of these avenues provide extracurricular athletic opportunities for hundreds of thousands of students each year.

Another major trend of Texas public education over the past 15 years has been dual credit courses for high school students. Specifically, many universities have worked closely with area high schools in providing an avenue for prospective college students to earn college credits while still in high school.

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Âť EDUCATION IN WILLIAMSON COUNTY Williamson County now proudly offers high school students the opportunity to achieve an associate degree upon high school graduation. Partnerships with the local community college systems provide this exciting fast-track method for becoming a college graduate. This strategy also provides students the opportunity to experience the college atmosphere and get a feel for what they are looking for in their college choice.

This has been a huge success, not only in Texas but across the United States.

Texas education has much to offer.

Whether a family chooses to attend public schools or a private, internally funded education path such as a charter school, Texas education has proven to be top-notch. An extreme focus on postsecondary success has improved graduation rates and helped to motivate more students to succeed on school curriculum and STAAR testing. For all of these reason, Texas has continued to move in the right direction when it comes to education.

Public School Districts

There are numerous school districts within Williamson County. Williamson County borders Austin to the north and is focused around a major stretch of I-35.

This area features both city-centered living as well as an appealing rural setting.

The education, both public and private, is greatly differentiated in the area for this

reason. There are several large school districts, as well as smaller, rural districts.

Overall, Williamson County offers great choices in education with many districts to choose from.

2016 school year awarded a 4-star rating to the district. Postsecondary Readiness scores based on the STAAR test showed a nearly 15 percent higher efficiency score than the Texas average.

Bartlett ISD 404 Robinson, Bartlett, 76511 254-527-4247; www.bartlett.txed.net

Coupland ISD 620 S. Commerce St., Coupland, 78615 512-856-2422; www.couplandisd.org

Bartlett ISD is the epitome of small-town education. The Bartlett district covers portions of three counties, including the northeastern portion of Williamson County. The district has one school building that accommodates 369 students. Bartlett ISD achieved a 4-star rating based on the 2016 STAAR test scores. The district's 35 teachers provide an incredible 10.5:1 student-to-teacher ratio. This number is very difficult to find in Texas and speaks volumes to the focus on student growth that Bartlett ISD holds.

Coupland ISD is a small school district located in the southeast region of Williamson County. This district has a single K-12 school building that takes care of 150 students. Each grade level has a highly qualified teacher with professional aides. The staff count at this school totals 22, making the student-to-teacher ration very desirable. The district met the Texas state standards, achieving a 4-star rating on the 2016 STAAR test scale.

Coupland ISD students come from many different backgrounds, making for a very student-centered learning environment.

Burnet Consolidated ISD 208 East Brier, Burnet, 78611 512-756-2124; www.burnetcisd.net Burnet Consolidated ISD covers rural portions predominately on the western side of Williamson County. This is a relatively large public school district that takes care of over 3,000 students, grades K-12, on five total campuses. The district features a diverse mix of both students and teachers that appeals to many families. STAAR test scores from the

Florence ISD 306 College Ave., Florence, 76527 254-793-2850; www.florenceisd.net Florence ISD covers one of the larger portions in the northwest region of Williamson Country. This district has one elementary, one middle school and one high school, with just over 1,000 students that call the district home.

Williamson County is home to 15 school districts. The largest school district, Round Rock ISD, has more than 48,000 students that attend.

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HIGHER EDUCATION Florence ISD met the Texas state STAAR testing standard, just barely missing out on a 5-star rating. This district features a nearly identical mix of Caucasian and Hispanic students. The majority of the students are of elementary to junior high age; this shows the growth that this district has experienced.

Georgetown ISD 603 Lakeway Dr., Georgetown, 78628 512-943-5000; www.georgetownisd.org Georgetown ISD is one of the largest of the region. It is located along I-35 in the middle of Williamson County. This area has experience a gradual growth over the last 20 years. The school district itself has seen substantial overhaul over the last several years, with much updating of facilities and infrastructure in the area. This district is home to almost 11,000 students and over 1,000 teachers and staff. Georgetown achieved a 4-star rating on its STAAR test scores.

The statistic that jumps out at many parents is the near 85 percent student achievement score, which is over 6 percent more than the state average in Texas and 25 percent higher than the state standard. All of these factors make Georgetown ISD an extremely appealing school district.

Granger ISD 300 North Colorado, Granger, 76530 512-859-2173 ; www.grangerisd.net Granger ISD is located in a rural part of Williamson County in the northeast region. Granger ISD educates 406 students in its single K-12 school, featuring an attractive 10.9:1 studentto-teacher ratio. Over 60 percent of the teachers at Granger ISD have been with the district for over six years. This is a strong indicator of the friendly environment offered at Granger ISD and the desire of teachers to stay with the district. Granger ISD scored 4 stars based on the 2016 STAAR testing, with a high rating in student progress for the last school year.

Austin Community College 4400 College Park Dr., Round Rock, 78665 This is one of the more notable Austin Community College extensions that is located in Round Rock. This college features an incredibly low $77 per credit hour education. With over 45,000 enrolled students among all of its campuses in the area, this has become a popular option for education on any schedule or budget.

South University 1220 W. Louis Henna Blvd., Round Rock, 78681 Discover the benefits of an education from South University. Since 1899, South University has committed to the professional, social, intellectual and personal development of their diverse students by providing accredited courses, a faculty that lends professional experience to the learning experience, and a student body that shares a goal of professional fulfillment.

Southwestern University 1001 E. University Ave., Georgetown, 78626 Southwestern University is located in Georgetown. Southwestern has an enrollment of just under 6,000 students, most of whom are commuters. This college competes in NCAA Division III athletics in many sports except for football.

Temple College 2600 S. 1st St., Temple, 76504 Temple College is another great community college option in the area. Temple College competes in the NCAA Junior College division in basketball, baseball, softball and volleyball. Temple College currently has 6,231 students enrolled for the spring 2017 semester.

Texas A&M Health Science Center 3950 North A.W. Grimes Blvd., Round Rock, 78665 The Texas A&M College of Medicine is a community-based medical school providing third- and fourth-year clinical training at regional clinical campuses around the state through affiliations with local physicians, clinics and hospitals. At the Round Rock clinical campus, clerkship directors direct the students' rotations in

Emergency Medicine, Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Obstetrics/Gynecology, Pediatrics, Psychiatry and Surgery at sites across Williamson County. Additional community physicians serve as clerkship faculty in these and other clinical areas.

Texas State University Round Rock Campus 1555 University Blvd., Round Rock, 78665 The Round Rock Campus (RRC) offers the junior- and senior-level classes to complete a bachelor’s degree in over 10 programs, as well as 12 graduate degrees, post-baccalaureate certification and continuing education programs. Students can complete their first two years (freshman and sophomore level classes) at the Texas State University San Marcos campus, any community college, or transfer to the RRC from another school.

Courses at the RRC are offered at convenient times close to where students live and work. Students who complete their degree requirements at the RRC earn their degrees from Texas State University.

TSTC | Hutto Campus 1600 Innovation Blvd., Hutto, 78634 Our campus in Williamson County is the result of a partnership with Temple College to help its citizens invest less in their education and earn more.

TSTC in Williamson County is part of a multi-institutional teaching center called East Williamson County Higher Education Center (EWCHEC). The college is committed to providing citizens of Hutto, Taylor and the surrounding areas access to highly specialized and advanced technical education that can lead to great career opportunities. The center is housed in the new 112,000 square-foot EWCHEC facility located on 57 acres in Hutto.

University of Texas 110 Inner Campus Drive, Austin, 78705 The University of Texas is accessible for Williamson County commuters. This is one of the largest universities in the United States, tucked at the center of the state capital city of Austin. Opened in 1883, it currently educates over 52,000 students.

Some of the amazing awards include the #30 best university in the world by U.S. News & World Report and the #17 best value school in the United States in 2016 by Forbes.

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» EDUCATION IN WILLIAMSON COUNTY Jarrell ISD 312 N. 5th Street, Jarrell, 76537 512-746-2124; www.jarrellisd.org

Leander ISD 204 W. South Street, Leander, 78646 512-570-0000; www.leanderisd.org

Hutto ISD is located in the southern portion of Williamson County. This is one of the fastest-growing school districts in all of Texas and perhaps the fastest-growing in Williamson County.

This district has eight total schools that handle the education needs of over 6,000 students. While the student-to-teacher ratio is a bit higher than other districts in the county at 15:1, nearly 20 percent of the teachers in Hutto ISD hold a master’s degree. Hutto ISD just missed on achieving a 5-star rating from the 2016 STAAR test; however, they showed great achievement across the board. Hutto ISD figures to continue its growth over the next decade.

Jarrell ISD is located in the northern region of Williamson County along I-35.

Jarrell is a relatively small school district, however it has also experienced great growth. In fact, nearly fifty percent of the student population is in the elementary grade level which shows growth is new and will continue to help fund improvements and expansion within the district.

With a total of four schools and 1,425 students in 2016, Jarrell ISD has added several features over the last decade, including a new elementary school as well as improved high school facilities. Jarrell ISD met the state STAAR standard and they excelled.

Leander ISD covers portions of the southwest region of Williamson County.

Leander holds the title of 2nd largest school district in Williamson County with just over 37,000 students as of 2016. One of the most unique statistics of Leander ISD is its focus on economically disadvantaged students. The district is home to over 6,000 of these students. Students have been able to excel in Leander ISD, as evidenced by an 83 percent student achievement score based on its 4-star state STAAR metrics. Leander ISD is a fast-growing district that has been able to keep its students’ achievements at the forefront.

WILLIAMS ON COUNTY S CHOOL DISTRICT STATISTICS

Hutto ISD 200 College Street, Hutto, 78634 512-759-3771; www.hipponation.org

ENROLLMENT

FACULTY

STUDENT/ TEACHER RATIO

STAAR PASS RATE

3,140

436

15.3:1

68%

Coupland ISD

150

21

12.8:1

76%

Florence ISD

1,026

157

12.8:1

65%

Georgetown ISD

10,997

1,103

14.3:1

74%

406

65

10.9:1

70%

Hutto ISD

6,527

865

15.4:1

81%

Jarrell ISD

1,426

213

13.4:1

71%

Leander ISD

37,158

4,509

15.2:1

86%

964

148

11.6:1

77%

Liberty Hill ISD

3,482

453

14.5:1

85%

Round Rock ISD

47,827

6,106

14.5:1

87%

Taylor ISD

3,182

503

13.4:1

71%

Thorndale ISD

572

93

12:01

74%

Thrall ISD

648

88

12.3:1

78%

SCHOOL DISTRICT Burnet Consolidated ISD

Granger ISD

Lexington ISD

*TEA STAAR 2017 Test Results

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Lexington ISD 8731 N. Hwy. 77, Lexington, 78947 979-773-2254; www.lexingtonisd.net Lexington ISD has just a small portion of its district on the southeast corner of Williamson County. It has three school buildings. With over 950 students, Lexington ISD is a moderate size that makes it flexible for many families. Like many other districts in the region, this school district has much of its student population in the elementary grade levels. This speaks to the growth and progress of the region.

Lexington ISD achieved a 4-star rating by the state STAAR testing metric.

Liberty Hill ISD 301 Forrest St., Liberty Hill, 78642 512-260-5580; www.libertyhill.txed.net Liberty Hill ISD is located in the western portion of Williamson County. The district has put great value in improving educational facilities over the last decade, as evidenced by the highly accessible buildings and beautiful athletic facilities.

Liberty Hill ISD has 240 teachers who work to educate nearly 3,500 students.

With five schools in the district, Liberty Hill is an established and growing district for virtually any family’s academic goals. Liberty Hill ISD achieved the

state required STAAR rating, while maintaining an 85 percent student achievement score.

Round Rock ISD 1311 Round Rock Ave., Round Rock, 78681 512-464-5000; www.roundrockisd.org Round Rock ISD, located on the south side of Williamson County just outside of Austin, is the county's largest district, serving over 48,000 students. Round Rock ISD meets the needs of an extremely diverse mix of students from a wide variety of backgrounds. This creates a great environment for student growth and achievement. With over 3,200 teachers, the student-to-teacher ratio is 14:1, which is remarkable considering the size of the district. Round Rock ISD achieved the state required STAAR metric rating, with an exceptional 87 percent student achievement score. This score, as of 2016, was the highest in Williamson County.

has recently been updated. Thorndale ISD is home to 572 students of many ethnic and economic backgrounds. With 48 teachers, this makes a very nice 12:1 student-to-teacher ratio. Thorndale ISD scored a 4-star rating on the state STAAR test metric, with high scoring of 75 percent in postsecondary success.

Thrall ISD 201 S. Bounds, Thrall, 76578 512-898-0062; www.thrallisd.com Thrall ISD makes up a large portion of the east region of Williamson County.

While this area is largely rural, this district is one of the larger districts in

Taylor ISD 3101 N. Main St., Taylor, 76574 512-365-1391; www.taylorisd.org Taylor ISD is located in the southeastern portion of Williamson County next to Hutto ISD. The district has five schools that educate nearly 3,200 students. With 237 teachers, the student-to-teacher ratio is at a very acceptable 13.4:1. Taylor ISD has arguably the most ethnically diverse student make-up of the entire county. Taylor ISD achieved a 4-star rating according to the state STAAR test data, with a very high 38 percent student progress score. Taylor ISD has added many support staff positions over the past several years, creating an environment that focuses on English Language Learning (ELL) student support.

Thorndale ISD 300 North Main St., Thorndale, 76577 512-898-2538; www.thorndale.txed.net Thorndale ISD has a bit of its border that protrudes into the east edge of Williamson County. This school district has one elementary school, one middle school and one very nice high school that WWW.WC L I F E. O R G

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» EDUCATION IN WILLIAMSON COUNTY the entire county in terms of land area.

Thrall ISD educates nearly 700 students in one elementary, one middle school and one high school. Thrall ISD is another district that features nearly 20 percent of its teachers holding a master’s degree.

Thrall ISD boasts a 12.4:1 student-toteacher ratio with a highly mixed staff background. This district nearly scored a 5-star STAAR test metric rating last school year. Thrall ISD features a great pride in rural public school education.

Williamson County is home to many highlyrated private schools, with options available for students of all ages.

If you're in search of the area's top-rated private early education centers, Round Rock and Georgetown are great places to start.

PRIVATE SCHOOLS Top-notch education has always been at the forefront of the list for many Williamson County families. Luckily for many transplants to the area who are considering a private education for their child, there are plenty of options. Many private school options provide smaller child-to-teacher ratios, benefits of foreign language instruction and even before- and after-school care to accommodate working parents. Extracurricular activities at private schools rank high on the list of desired elements for many families.

Take your time, do some research and discover some of the best private education options that Williamson County has to offer.

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Brushy Creek Montessori School 3017 Polar Ln., Cedar Park, 78613 512-259-3333; www.brushycreekms.com Brushy Creek Montessori is located in Cedar Park. This school is one of the most popular private school options in the area for early childhood development.

Brushy Creek takes care of students from pre-K to kindergarten. There is currently a large enrollment of 130 students. The valuable staff at this school is a strong selling point, as all are highly trained and motivated, providing the best in social and educational development for every child.

Cedar Park Montessori School 400 E. Whitestone Blvd., Cedar Park, 78613 512-259-8495; www.cedarparkmontessori.com Cedar Park Montessori School focuses on pre-K through 5th grade development, with an emphasis on physical development as well as cognitive. Cedar Park Montessori School currently has an enrollment of 89 students, giving it the ideal student-to-teacher balance.

Challenger School Avery Ranch Campus: 512-341-8000 15101 Avery Ranch Blvd., Austin, 78717 Round Rock Campus: 512-255-8844 1521 Joyce Lane, Round Rock, 78664 Pond Springs Campus: 512-258-1299 13015 Pond Springs Road, Austin, 78729 www.challengerschool.com Challenger School is a nonprofit, nonsectarian, independent private school founded in 1963. It has 25 campuses in California, Idaho, Nevada, Texas and Utah, and teaches over 10,000 students annually. Challenger offers preschool through eighth-grade programs and, in addition to its academic foundation, emphasizes individual liberty as described in America’s founding documents. Challenger accepts no government monies and is headquartered in Sandy, Utah.

Concordia High School 1500 Royston Ln., Round Rock, 78664 512-248-2547; www.chsaustin.org

Concordia High School is located in Round Rock. This school serves 145 students in grades 9 through 12. This is one of the only private schools that is solely responsible for high-school-aged students. Parent reviews are high for this school, citing great one-on-one learning opportunities and vast technology involvement.

LifePointe Christian Academy 1451 Carl Stern Blvd., Hutto, 78634 512-846-2751; www.lifepointechristianacademy.com LifePointe Christian Academy focuses on providing a safe environment and an atmosphere where children are supported in their emotional, spiritual, physical and intellectual needs. Classrooms are set up in age-appropriate lifestyle centers to encourage imagination and exploration.

LifePointe Christan Academy accepts children ages six weeks through pre-K. Primrose School

910 North Vista Ridge Blvd., Cedar Park, 78613 2021 Little Elm Trail, Cedar Park, 78613

2205 Wolf Ranch Pkwy., Georgetown, 78628 1781 Osage Dr., Leander, 78641 15925 Great Oaks Dr., Round Rock, 78681 4271 Sunrise Rd., Round Rock, 78665 3313 Forest Creek Dr., Round Rock, 78664 www.primroseschools.com/locations/ Primrose School has several locations in Williamson County to serve families with younger children. The schools feature a special emphasis on kindergarten development. Their teachers are specifically trained each year to work with this age group of children and are highly qualified to nurture motor and cognitive skill development.

Round Rock Christian Academy 301 N. Lake Creek Dr., Round Rock, 78681 512-255-4491; www.rrca-tx.org Round Rock Christian Academy is a large private school that teaches all grade levels from early childhood to 12th grade.

This school has one of the larger private school enrollments in the county at 520. Reviews of the school boast a high

Start Early.

Start Right.

Challenger School offers uniquely fun and academic classes for preschool to eighth grade students.

Our students learn to think for themselves and to value independence.

The results are unmatched at any price!

Come see for yourself!

Observe our classrooms any time—no appointment needed.

An independent private school offering preschool through eighth grade Avery Ranch 15101 Avery Ranch Boulevard, Austin (512) 341-8000 Pond Springs 13015 Pond Springs Road, Austin (512) 258-1299 Round Rock 1521 Joyce Lane, Round Rock (512) 255-8844

Ins p ir ing Child re n to Ac h i e v e S i n c e 1 9 6 3 Š 2017, Challenger Schools. Challenger School admits students of any race, color, and national or ethnic origin.

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Âť EDUCATION IN WILLIAMSON COUNTY achievement standard for students and a fast introduction of math and English skills at an early age.

the way to 7th grade. The enrollment of 70 is a nice balance for social and cognitive development.

Sapientia Montessori School 1220 Cottonwood Creek Trail Cedar Park, 78613; 512-260-2261 www.sapientiamontessori.com

St. Helen Catholic School 2700 E. University Ave., Georgetown, 7862 512-868-0744; www.shcslions.org

Sapientia Montessori School is located in Cedar Park. This is a private school that has been growing in popularity over the last few years. With a special emphasis on early childhood to school-aged children, the school currently educates students from pre-K to 3rd grade. The current enrollment is at a strong 109 students.

SS Cyril & Methodius Catholic School P.O. Box 248, Granger, 76530 512-859-2927 This is a specialty Roman Catholic school that offers a heavy influence in this area throughout the curriculum.

This school is located in Granger and educates students from kindergarten all

Summit Christian Academy – Cedar Park 2121 Cypress Creek Rd., Cedar Park, 78613 512-250-1369; www.summiteagles.org

Another school that offers a heavy Catholic influence in its curriculum, St. Helen Catholic School is located in Georgetown. This school educates pre-K to 8th-grade students. The current enrollment of 178 makes it the largest catholic-specific private school in the county.

Summit Christian Academy has several campuses throughout the state of Texas.

The campus for Williamson County is located in Cedar Park. Covering grade levels from pre-K all the way to the 12th grade, Summit Christian Academy educates 385 students. This makes it quite a large campus. Reviews are somewhat mixed on this campus, but overall a good relationship between teachers and parents makes it a quality school.

St. Paul Lutheran School 610 Fowzer St., Taylor, 76574 512-352-6154; www.stpaultaylorschool.org

Upward Bound Montessori School 101 Fannin Avenue, Round Rock, 78664 512-218-4644; www.ubmontessori.com

St. Paul Lutheran School is one of the only Lutheran-specific private schools in the area. It is located in Taylor. The elementary age is the primary focus, as the school educates grades pre-K through 5.

The school has an overall enrollment of 75 students.

Upward Bound is located in Round Rock.

This school features a heavy religious emphasis at the early childhood ages.

The school currently educates pre-K and kindergarten. The current enrollment is 30 students, providing solid interactions among students and teachers.

Zion Lutheran School 6101 FM 1105, Georgetown, 78626 512-863-5345; www.zionwalburg.org Zion Lutheran School is the primary Lutheran School in all of Williamson County. Located in Georgetown, Zion currently educates pre-K through 9th grade. The current enrollment is 209 students, making it quite a large private school setting. Reviews of this school are very high, citing fast-paced instruction and achieving at high levels compared to many other schools, both public and private.

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Round Rock Christian Academy is one of the many top-notch private schools in Williamson County.

V E R T I S E R A D

SPOTLIGHT 

E D U C AT I O N



ROUND ROCK CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

Round Rock Christian Academy (RRCA) has provided quality Christian education in Round Rock and the greater community for over 40 years, equipping students with an excellent academic and spiritual foundation. Our desire is to partner with Christian families to help educate through discipleship, encouraging each student to develop a Christian worldview and to grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ. Future plans include a new campus adjacent to the existing property that will provide more educational space and facilities for continued growth.

fine arts and athletics. In both 2015 and 2016, RRCA won the 3A Academic State Championship and won the TAPPS 3A Vocal Championship in 2017. Elementary and middle school students participate in ACSI Spelling and Math competitions, PSIA Academic and Speech events, ACAA athletic competitions, as well as fine arts competitions with drama and choir. From Lego Robotics to Chess Club, Student Council to the Speech/Debate team, there are many opportunities for students to explore.

Technology and Academics Classrooms are equipped with technology to provide an enriched learning experience for all grade levels. Chromebooks are provided for each high school student, and classroom sets are available for middle school and elementary students. Students are well prepared for college with AP and Dual-credit course options available.

College entrance test scores of RRCA students are consistently higher than local, state and national averages.

Pre-K – 12th Grade Accreditation RRCA is committed to offering a college-preparatory program of excellence to our students. We maintain high educational standards through the accrediting process of the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) and AdvancED. This dual accreditation gives our students the opportunity to be prepared and accepted to any higher learning institution of their choice.

Extracurricular Options RRCA high school students compete in the Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools (TAPPS) for academics,

For more information, call (512) 255-4491 or visit www.rrca-tx.org

STAYING HAPPY &

HEALTHY Healthcare in Williamson County

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Williamson County, Texas, is a thriving community where health is a prime concern for the people who live there.

With preventative care, technology innovations, and countless options for patients, there are many healthcare resources in this flourishing county. Some of the main priorities of the county include mental health, chronic diseases, better access options for healthcare, and healthy programs for employees, schools, and active lives. Williamson County believes its communities will be in better health if they are more aware and focused on preventative care which is offered for its citizens.

Major Medical Facilities:

Baylor Scott & White Health With multiple locations around the Williamson County area, Baylor Scott & White Health provides major hospital needs, urgent care facilities and clinics.

Founded by Arthur C. Scott, MD, and Raleigh R. White Jr., MD, back in 1897 in Temple, Texas, Baylor Scott & White has grown to 12 acute care hospitals, 140 clinics and 70 primary care and specialty locations. With more than 14,000 employees across the Central Texas region, Baylor Scott & White is one of the largest employers within the Williamson County area. Scott & White has earned a reputation for excellence in cancer, orthopedics, neuroscience, pediatric and cardiovascular care. With accolades from U.S. News & World Report, Thomson Reuters and Newsweek, Baylor Scott & White has become a nationally-acclaimed healthcare organization.

Cedar Park Regional Medical Center Cedar Park Regional Medical Center wants each patient’s experience to be one of hope and peace. The medical center in Cedar Park helps patients, families and friends to experience as stress-free an environment as possible. There are many resources for people to plan their visit and understand what they might expect, where to park, and transportation options to the hospital.

Continuing to assist in this process, Cedar Park Regional Medical Center has information to help with admissions, eligibility, ER wait time, scheduling and bill pay. For more information, this medical center shares an e-newsletter monthly

to keep the communities of Williamson County updated on important and/or new information. Also, Cedar Park Regional Medical Center offers classes and programs for the community to take advantage of.

Look for more instruction on their website: www.cedarparkregional.com St. David’s Georgetown Hospital This hospital is a branch of the St. David’s Medical Center in Austin. This facility offers programs for maternity and newborn care, as well as care for cancer, emergencies and pulmonary problems.

This facility's rehabilitation services get people back on their feet after an injury or when surgeries take place. St. David’s Georgetown Hospital also prides itself on prevention and protecting its patients over their lifetime. They have wonderful free services on their website to check the age of a heart, estimate the WWW.WC L I F E. O R G

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» HEALTHCARE IN WILLIAMSON COUNTY chances of breast cancer in a family, or by giving helpful tips regarding a child’s asthma. One last unique feature of this medical facility is the fact that they have average Emergency Room (ER) wait time information. This gives patients and/or loved ones peace of mind when using St. David’s Georgetown Hospital. Check out their website and YouTube Video links for more information: www.stdavids.com/locations/ st-davids-georgetown-hospital/.

St. David’s Round Rock Medical Center This hospital, in the heart of Round Rock, is connected with St. David’s HealthCare system. The medical center has received many coveted awards in the last three years. In 2014, this healthcare system was awarded the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Recognition, which praises its efforts to further the health of people in Williamson County. Just last year, the Distinguished Hospital Award for Clinical Excellence was given because of their phenomenal medical support. The hospital has over 170 beds for patients in need, and they offer cardiac care for advance patient help, which is the first of its kind in Williamson Country. Also, St.

David’s Round Rock Medical Center has a Hybrid Operating Room (OR), which is the only one in the county as well.

Furthermore, this hospital has a Level II Trauma Center and 24-hour ER services.

Other unique features include medical surgeries done with robotic help and firstof-its-kind orthopedic surgeries which are some of the best in the state. They proudly provide many healthcare firsts to serve Williamson County with stateof-the-art care. For more information, visit www.stdavids.com/location/ st-davids-round-rock-medical-center.

Seton Medical Center Williamson The Seton Medical Center in Williamson County is part of a bigger network called the Seton Healthcare Family. They are a nonprofit healthcare group which was created through the Daughters of Charity in 1902. Seton believes they are “called to be a sign of God’s unconditional love for all” by providing top-quality services and care at affordable prices. Seton is able to achieve this in Williamson County by connecting with Ascension, the largest nonprofit health system in the country. Also, Seton is revolutionary in the way they think about healthcare. They call this healthcare “Humancare,” and its job is to think with the heart when showing love to others, which provides healing to people in every capacity.

Urgent Care Clinics

Urgent Care Clinics or Urgent Care Medicine (UCM) were created to help the immediate medical needs of people.

These types of clinics usually need a lot of funding and knowledge to provide the care necessary for people in the community. Urgent care also must have a great amount of networking with local hospitals, physicians, and specialists to help patients who are outside their scope of medical help. In some cases, Urgent Care Clinics are officially branded with local hospitals in the area, to help with medical communication. Despite popular belief, Urgent Care facilities were not created to completely replace the common physician. These clinics were made to be convenient, so patients 56

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can avoid the long wait times usually found at hospital ERs. UCM covers a broad scope of medicine when caring for both women and men. These clinics have specialists who can perform X-rays and simple laboratory tests such as strep tests, pregnancy tests and urinalyses. On average, these clinics are a lot quicker to get into; unlike an Emergency Room setting, many patients appreciate the efficient care they receive at a UCM. The following is a list of area facilities: FastMed Urgent Care 4506 Williams Dr., Ste 120 Georgetown, 78626; 512-869-3355 3705 N Main St., Ste 103 Taylor, 76574; 512-352-6862 www.fastmed.com FastMed Urgent Care provides wonderful healthcare during anytime of the year, including holidays. They are open in the evenings and do not require appointments.

MedSpring Urgent Care 1820 Gattis School Rd. Round Rock, 78664; 512-861-8050 1335 E Whitestone Blvd, #100 Cedar Park, 78613; 512-402-6840 www.medspring.com MedSpring Urgent care has eight locations around the Austin-metro area. MedSpring offers free WiFi, drinks and snacks to make your wait time a little less stressful.

NextCare Urgent Care 1240 E. Palm Valley Blvd., Round Rock, 78664; 512-733-9100 351 Cypress Creek Rd., Suite 103 Cedar Park, 78613; 512-250-8199 900 N. Austin Ave., Suite 105 Georgetown, 78626; 512-930-7828 www.nextcare.com NextCare knows the importance of having immediate access to urgent medical care. They have extended hours of operation most mornings, evenings and weekends to meet your needs.

NextCare accepts most major medical insurance and has options for those without access to health insurance.

FINDING A DOCTOR St. David’s Urgent Care 1700 E. Palm Valley Blvd., Suite 370 Round Rock, 78665 512-341-6000; www.stdavids.com St. David's Urgent Care clinic is open 24/7 for your medical needs, such as minor wounds, strains and sprains, the flu, allergies and colds. It is part of the St. David's healthcare system, which also provides care for more serious situations at ER rooms throughout the area.

Urgent Care for Kids 3750 Gattis School Rd., Round Rock, 78664; 512-813-6850 905 E Whitestone Blvd., C Cedar Park, 78613; 512-996-9899 www.urgentcarekids.com If you have a child in your household, check out Urgent Care for Kids. They have a sensational ranking of 4.9 out of 5-stars and offer a comfortable, playful atmoshpere with a friendly staff.

Urgent and Family Care at Avery Ranch 10625 W. Parmer Ln., Austin, 78717 512-733-9400; www.austinurgentcare.com Austin Urgent and Family Care helps with minor injuries and illnesses. As a full-service walk in clinic, the are equipped to handle sports physicals, sprains, broken bones, vaccinations, flu shots, allergies, burns, lab work and more. Their online check in service allows patients to wait in the comfort of their own home until they are seen by the doctor.

Advanced Facilities and Newest Centers Advanced Pain Care 3316 Williams Dr., Suite 150, Georgetown, 78628; 512-244-4272 2000 South Mays St., Suite 400, Round Rock, 78664; 512-244-4272 200 South Bell Blvd., Suite F-5, Cedar Park, 78613; 512-244-4272 www.austinpaindoctor.com

Advanced Pain Care was created to provide improvement and comfort when

Moving to a new city is exciting, but it also requires finding the grocery store you like, the schools your kids will attend – and the healthcare practitioners that fit the needs of your family. The following is a list of local and national physician resources, including the American Medical Association, where you can search for general practice physicians by location, specialty and more.

American Medical Association: Resource for general health information, as well as a search function for local physician resources under the “Patients” tab of the site. www.ama-assn.org American Academy of Pediatrics: National website for children’s health resources; separate “Parenting Corner” website is a comprehensive site for health-related news, questions and other topics. www.aap.org www.healthychildren.org Texas Medical Association: Listing of member physicians across the state, as well as information on general health resources; go to the “Find A Physician” tab to search by specialty or location. www.texmed.org

it comes to your body. The medical staff, based in the heart of Texas, cares deeply about its patients in a very personal way. When it comes to chronic or acute pain, the team of doctors and medical personnel will be able to treat the needs of its patients. They have many treatment options to choose from, ranging from medical injections to steroids, wave frequencies to physical therapy. With many testimonials on their webpage, there are many people who were thankful for the services Advanced Pain Care gave them. Lastly, if you are looking for the most up-to-date information about pain therapy, spend some time reading their well-researched articles on their website.

Eagle Eye Center 620 S. I-35, Georgetown, 78626 512-863-9966; www.eagleeyecenter.net Eagle Eye Center is an advanced eye care facility that serves Georgetown and the surrounding area. Conveniently situated in the local Georgetown Wal-Mart, Eagle Eye Care has a multitude of services to help a person’s vision and/or eye health.

This eye center uses the most up-to-date technology to help with vision issues,

and they have great eye solution options to help the growing needs of their patients. If you are looking for new eye glasses or contacts, walk in without an appointment to see what services could be offered to you.

Georgetown Medical Clinic 3201 S. Austin Ave., Suite 210, Georgetown, 78626; 512-763-4000; www.georgetownmedical.com The Georgetown Medical Clinic has been around Williamson County for over 60 years, so they understand the way of life in Central Texas. They have phenomenal doctors, nurses, and physician assistants to help with any medical service you might need, regardless of age. Their options include, but are not limited to: tests for pregnancy, physical exams, and pediatric work. One of the many goals that Georgetown Medical Clinic wants to achieve is to lower the cost of healthcare, and they believe this is a reality every day as they help patients heal without costing them a fortune. Georgetown Medical Clinic received a 2014 Malcolm Bladrige National Quality Award due to their commitment to helping children with their immunizations.

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HOUSING + COMMUNITIES

With its breathtaking landscape of endless rolling hills, warm climate, booming housing market and thriving job market, Williamson County in the Texas Hill Country is a perfect location to begin a new chapter in life.

Williamson County, located north of the growing city of Austin, is a magnet for those looking for the optimal place to live. Anytime individuals decide to pick up roots and relocate, a myriad of factors come into play and the process of weighing pros and cons begins. In this case, the pros have it.

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» HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS A rare gem lies in the central region of the Texas Hill Country – Williamson County.

It’s situated just above Travis County, where Austin lies. Every spring, the roads that lead from Austin to growing communities of Williamson County are blanketed with bluebonnets. They adorn the rolling hills and mountainous landscapes with their unrivaled beauty. Bluebonnets spill across parks and pastures and can turn everyone with a smartphone into a photographer. Photos of these sapphire blankets are snapped and posted online or sent to family and friends with a note that proclaims “The Good Life.”

It’s not simply the beauty of the hills, lush landscapes and sparkling rivers which continue to lure in new residents.

With small-town charm and big-city convenience, residents find this to be an exceptional place to call home.

Anyone fortunate enough to call the Texas Hill Country home won’t argue; for them, it’s as good as it gets. Texans, especially those in Williamson County, are proud of their heritage. While much has changed in the use of the land since Texas became the 28th state in 1845, developers have made painstaking efforts to preserve some of its rich history.

and elm trees stood guard over the vast agricultural farmland. Eventually, a new dawn rose and three railroads soon crossed the topography by 1870. The advent of the rails gave the county a prominent role in cattle trade. Fast-forward to the 1960s; Williamson County began to see a dramatic migration of those who were under the spell of the jewel in the center of Texas. Today, fifty years later, the latest wave of settlers is buying homes in prestigious neighborhoods. Most of them aren’t interested in rustling cattle, but they are too enamored by the sweeping views of the countryside to return to city life.

About 150 years ago, Williamson County was frontier land, and Comanche Indians were present as late as 1838. The county is split between hilly brush land to the west and fertile fields of the coastal plains in the east. Centuries-old oak, mesquite, pecan

It’s not simply the beauty of the hills, lush landscapes and sparkling rivers that continue to lure in new residents.

With small-town charm and big-city convenience, residents find this to be an exceptional place to call home. The

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weather is also a huge draw. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, horseback riding, rock climbing, canoeing, boating and fishing year-round. The hill country has a bountiful supply of rivers, streams and lakes that have carved out their own unique routes.

With people flocking to Williamson County to live in their dream home, they have developed a robust housing market; new residential communities are popping up along the corridor. The exceptionally low interest rates are enticing prospective homeowners to seize the opportunity and buy now. Along with these new neighborhoods, commercial developers are entering the market and are also driving growth. The rising population opens growth potential for retailers, restaurants, health-care facilities and more.

Several award-winning Texas builders are diligently at work designing homes in more than 50 master-planned communities in Williamson County.

Each single-family home is a masterpiece within resort-style communities that offer stunning family-friendly amenities.

The builders offer a variety of elevations and versatile floor plans in these one- and two-story homes. These energy efficient homes are listed anywhere from $200k on the low end to more than $2 million.

Builders offer buyers a wide range of amenities, including granite countertops, kitchen islands, generous master suites and oversized garden tubs.

Bryson, in Leander, has many amenities including plenty of greenspace for community and family gatherings

Welcome to Williamson County Let me be your 5-star Realtor® and help you with all of your real estate needs

Allyson Almeida BROKER-OWNER

512-680-8472 | allyson@austin512realty.com I’ve been a Texan for over 40 years, and I’m proud to call Williamson County HOME! As a licensed Realtor since 1997 and Real Estate Broker since 2009, I want to help you and your family find the perfect home.

Whether you are new to the area or a local, I can promise you top-notch real estate services. Your satisfaction is my ultimate goal. I can assure you I will offer you the following services: • Guidance for home inspections, mortgage lenders, communities & more • Knowledge of area schools, neighborhoods and recreation • Smooth start-to-finish real estate transaction • Broker/Client represented transaction • Customized home search based on client’s-specific preferences

AUSTIN 512 REALTY

www.austin512realty.com | 12001 W. Parmer Lane, Suite 100, Cedar Park, TX 78613

» HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS Residents can enjoy access to the communities’ swimming pools, splash pools, pavilion, tennis courts, state-of-the art fitness centers, playgrounds and pocket parks. These outdoor activities are enhanced by the captivating countryside. In most instances, the students won’t have to go too far to attend one of the schools that have low student-to-teacher ratios. Many elementary and middle schools are located within the communities, making it both easier and safer for students.

As Texans love a good game of golf, nearly every community in Williamson County has its own 18-hole championship course designed by the pros. Whether outdoors fishing or driving a ball down a fairway, you will be graced with a panoramic view of sheer beauty.

FUN FACT No. 05

Cedar Park is home to more than 750 caves and miles of hiking trails and is home to the Texas Cave Conservancy’s annual “Cave Day,” when guests can explore the caves and learn about the region.

Texans embrace southern charm and hospitality as a way of life and as a way of doing business. They are passionate about work and in seeking ways to preserve the area by being socially and environmentally responsible members of the community. But they also want to pour

this type of passion into the communities where they go to rest – and play.

Williamson County has been making a splash in the news lately; according to the latest numbers released by the United States Census Bureau, it’s the seventhfastest-growing county in the nation. It has an estimated population of around 500,000 people. Because Williamson County has been near the top of lists of expanding counties for a number of years, the news wasn’t surprising.

The steady influx of people has especially led to Round Rock’s huge growth and expansion making it the largest city in the county. The U.S. News and World Report announced Austin has earned their number one spot in their 2017 Best Places to Live report. Austin beat out 99 cities to become the top spot in America.

In determining the rankings, they combined data from the United States Census Bureau, the Federal Bureau of Investigations, the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the U.S. News Rankings of the Best High School and Best Hospitals reports.

Golf, a vibrant music scene and beautiful views add to the appeal of Williamson County.

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The 2017 Best Places to Live was also determined by a public survey of thousands of U.S. citizens that asked them to prioritize the most important characteristics of a community when choosing a place to live and raise a family. People resoundingly wanted a city with a strong job market and excellent quality of life. Defining a quality of life as a community that is safe, has a strong business climate, excellent schools, and finding affordable homes. Williamson County checks all of those boxes. Boasting a low 3.3% unemployment rate, the job market and economy are booming in Williamson County. The low crime rate and safety programs including a Citizen’s Police Academy encourages community efforts to maintain low crime. Top rated schools form Pre-K through colleges offering grand and post grad degrees abound. No matter which community you choose to live, there is a great home waiting for you in Williamson County.

One major employer, Dell, has more than 13,000 employees. Other major technology businesses include IBM, Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), Apple, Applied Materials and AT&T. Many other industries that also hire a large segment of Williamson County residents are involved in health

care, retail and government, which broadens the business scene.

Each city within Williamson County has its own unique flavor. For instance, Georgetown, with a population of only 49,000, has won the hearts of many for its small-town charm. It’s a charming

A large proportion of the residents living in Williamson County work in Austin.

Since the typical commute to Austin is merely 25 miles, residents in one of these premium communities can be immersed in a country setting without feeling totally disconnected.

The Austin metro area is an enormous hub for technology innovation, as well as a progressive and fiercely competitive marketplace. The pro-business and pro-environment culture in the Austin area attracts those who possess an entrepreneurial spirit, as well as a host of others who want to be part of a thriving metropolitan area. These features and the favorable economic climate appear to be very conducive to the creation and development of small businesses. Many graduates of the University of Texas at Austin have come to love the city night life; it’s billed as the “Live Music Capital of the World. In addition, many are enticed by the variety of career opportunities available and decide to settle down permanently.

Austin enjoys a thriving tech scene, and many new residents relocated to take advantage of the technological career opportunities.

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» HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS area with a bounty of boutique shops and family-owned restaurants woven throughout its downtown area.

It’s claim to fame is its centerpiece: the “Most Beautiful Town Square in Texas.”

It happens to be where the exquisite Williamson County Courthouse is

situated. The entire downtown area is lined with Victorian-era architecture.

Georgetown also has the honor of being the first Texas city named a Great American Main Street City. It was knighted by the National Trust for Historic Preservation in 1997, which is the highest honor bestowed. Visitors who

Welcome to Williamson County!

One of the fastest-growing counties in Texas!

To make the right decision about your home purchase, you will need an expert in every option available to you.

Julie Floyd, Realtor®, Broker, and Master Certified Negotiation Expert (MCNE) is a Williamson County Specialist who has resided and worked in Williamson County for almost twenty years. She has expertise in the multiple alternatives available for your family including:

• • • •

Residential – New Construction and Pre-Existing Farm and Ranch New Construction – Build on Your Own Lot Raw Land

Contact her today for a FREE Williamson County consultation Juliefloyd.aus.exprealty.com Julie.Floyd@exprealty.com | (512) 627-6224

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want to embrace the city in winter can experience the magic during the Lighting of the Square and Christmas Stroll.

Georgetown is also home to the prestigious private liberal arts community of Southwestern University which was formed in 1873 and holds claim as the first university in Texas. They offer over forty degree programs at their beautiful and historic campus where they encourage “contributions toward the well-being of humanity” and academic excellence. Living by example, in 2010 Southwestern signed an agreement with the City of Georgetown to obtain all its electricity for the next 18 years from wind power. This made them the first Texas university to use only renewable resources to power its campus.

Those who reside in Round Rock believe they are in the heart of prime suburban splendor. Several fields and highways are usually doused with bluebonnets each spring. And they enjoy economic benefits as well. According to a recent report by The Council for Community and Economic Research, residents in Round Rock typically spend less than 28 percent of their salaries on housing. They generally spend less than the average American on groceries and utilities – about seven percent less. And since healthcare and other normal living expenses are under the national average, they have more spending money in their pockets.

With a population of 30,000, Leander can’t compete with the other cities in Williamson County, but it’s seen a 1000 percent increase in its population since 2000. Another important, positive statistic is that in the past ten years, home appreciation is up 35 percent. Leander residents embrace the city’s rich history and charm and work diligently to preserve it. Many of the buildings in the downtown area are original, but several have been restored.

Although Leander had its rough days back in the early 1890s with a population of only 330 people and a nickname of Bagdad, they were

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WWW.WC L I F E. O R G

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Âť HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS FUN FACT No. 06

Liberty Hill is home to Fort Tumbleweed, which features 12 historic buildings filled with relics from the 1850s. It is within 40 miles of all main Texas Hill Country attractions.

lured by the abundance of water and timber. When the 1920 depression hit, it dwindled to only 200. Unable to support its own school, it consolidated with Pleasant Hill in 1928, only to burn to the ground 10 years later. Still, the community continued to grow.

Eventually a school was built, as well as churches. Typically, social and community gatherings took place at a church. By 1950, the population had soared back to 300. Soon, people began to trickle in to the Hill Country and they instantly embraced the lifestyle.

Before long, subdivisions were developed. In 1969, a new high school was built. Twenty years later, another high school was built in Cedar Park.

Today in the Leander ISD, there are five high schools, eight middle schools and 23 elementary schools.

Leander has indeed seen its share of changes since the townspeople first objected to the intrusion of the railroad.

They wanted to live peacefully. Residents of Leander today believe that in their own way, they do live peacefully.

Liberty Hill is another Williamson County gem. While away from the busy streets of Austin, it is still a stone’s throw away from many of the best area attractions. A Liberty Hill hallmark is the historic Fort Tumbleweed, where a local couple has devoted 30 years to collecting 16-acres' worth of relics and buildings. Their goal is to breathe life from the past back into this historical setting. Visitors may schedule a tour to view the dozen buildings at Fort Tumbleweed.

No matter where you choose to settle down in Williamson County, you're sure to enjoy it's beautfiful Hill Country landscape and proximity to big city convenience.

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Welcome to Williamson County, Texas, the home of Dell Computers, Round Rock Express, Cedar Park Stars Hockey Team, Sun City, and Round Rock Donuts!

Yes, Round Rock Donuts, the favorite of many who live in Williamson County. Just one of the things you’ll come to learn about Williamson County as you peruse this new Relocation Guide.

Here for You

The Williamson County Association of REALTORS® (WCREALTORS) is excited to be bringing you this information about Williamson County. The Association has been serving the local REALTOR® community for the past 44 years! The Association put down its roots in July 1973 with only 15 REALTORS® and 9 brokers.

During these past 44 years the association has grown in numbers to over 1700 members and shows no sign of stopping given the continuing growth of the county.

Many folks wonder what service a REALTOR® Association provides to 68

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the community. We believe our mission statement says it best: “The Mission of the Williamson County Association of REALTORS® is to help its members meet present and future real estate challenges in Williamson County, to enhance and promote REALTOR® members’ professionalism, to encourage member involvement in the various communities of Williamson County, and to provide quality services for its members.” The Association takes its mission seriously and works steadfastly to ensure the goals and activities of the association are in line with this mission.

The association set down new roots in 2009 when it built a new 8,000 sq. ft. facility located at 123 East Old Settlers Boulevard, Round Rock. This facility doubled in size from its previous location on Sam Bass Road. The new facility provides multiple classrooms, office space, an expanded REALTOR® store, and most importantly, a rental facility space where the public can hold their events. Previously held activities are class for SAT prep, church services, business training seminars and a number of other community education and service activities. We welcome churches, businesses,

and individuals to come check out our Auditorium and full-kitchen to see if it will meet the needs of your next event.

In addition to providing training and educational advancement for our members, the Association actively promotes and defends property owner’s rights. In 2015, the real estate community all over the state of Texas was extremely active in passing Texas Proposition 1. The passing of this proposition effectively banned transfer taxes across the state of Texas; taking away a potential barrier to homeownership. Additionally, this Proposition also increased the homestead exemption to $25,000. This is in addition to many other changes within property rights such as: the addition of a seller’s disclosure to required real estate documents in 1993, eminent domain protections in 2005, and a $15.7 property tax deduction in 2006.

Our members are active in their local city councils, planning and zoning commissions, and want to make sure that your voice is heard within the city walls of government. Recently, the Association has increased our community efforts and you can find real estate updates, tools, and tips from one of our members monthly in the various local news publications!

In addition to being politically involved, the Association strives to give back to the community in many ways. Over the past four years, over 56,000 pounds of food has been collected by the REALTORS® for the local food pantries in Williamson County. The Association works closely

with the Williamson County Habitat for Humanity and aided in the building process of over a dozen houses in the past 10 years. In addition, our 501(c)(3) Scholarship Foundation has awarded over $20,000 in the past 10 years to graduating high school seniors to offset the costs of a college tuition.

In 2013 the association launched the first version of the WCLife.org website. This site was initially designed to be a resource to the members of the Association by providing hundreds of links to information used in real estate transactions.

The content of the website serves as a nexus of information that can easily be disseminated to their clients. Over time, the public was telling their friends about the site and word of mouth spread about it usefulness in the home buying or selling process. WCLife.org is currently focused on living in and relocating to Williamson County. Through this website you can

explore the diverse culture of each city in Williamson County, find new home communities, meet local businesses, and obtain all the necessary information to make Williamson County your home!

The WCLife.org website spawned two separate programs to further our mission of educating members. The first is the creation of a new CE class called: Selling Real Estate in Williamson County (WCSpecialist) Certification Course offered semi-annually at the Association. This award-winning course launched in 2015 was written by REALTORS® who wanted our members to better serve the community. The course focuses on taxing entities, water issues, local governmental jurisdictions, new homes, septic systems, and much more. After completing this course, the attendee can call themselves a Specialist of Williamson County Real Estate! Look for a REALTOR® with this designation when entering the home buying or selling process.

The second spin-off of WCLife.org is the magazine you are reading right now.

This inaugural issue is the epitome of teamwork and collaboration. Welcome to the Williamson County Relocation Guide, brought to you by the Williamson County Association of REALTORS®. Whether you currently live here, are moving here, or are thinking about becoming a resident of Williamson County, we invite you to check out the magazine and find out why Williamson County is not your ordinary suburb. We hope you love Williamson County as much as we do!

Welcome Home!

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PH OTO S C O URT ESY O F WC L I F E

CEDAR PARK Cedar Park is a vibrant community situated on the northern border of Austin just 17 miles from downtown.

Cedar Park was named for a park that was a rail stop in the late 1800s and was incorporated as a city in 1973. True to it's namesake, Cedar Park now features 47 city parks and 22 miles of trails.

Today’s population is about 69,000, and Cedar Park has twice been ranked Fourth Fastest-Growing City in the country in recent years. It s a bustling, high-tech employer hub too. Residents' median age is 34.2 years, and a whopping 44.1 percent hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average household income is $99,348.

Cedar Park is on the move! With a high quality of life and a low cost of living, the city of Cedar Park is making many initiatives and investments into their future. Some examples are securing local major employers, master planning, the Bell Boulevard Redevelopment Project, H-E-B Center at Cedar Park, mobility, transportation and more.

They are also committed to maintaining a high level of public safety.

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professionalism, integrity, leadership and fiscal responsibility, Cedar Park City Council has lowered the property tax rate the last four consecutive years - the lowest tax rate in 13 years.

Part of what helps keep the property tax rate low while allowing them to meet their citizens’ quality of life and service level expectations is local sales tax revenue. Two cents out of the 8.25 cents collected from every dollar spent from shopping and dining in Cedar Park goes right back into the community: one cent toward the city’s general fund and the other cent is divided between the city’s community development and economic development corporations.

Additionally, Cedar Park recently earned a AA+ bond rating, which allows the city to pay down debt faster and at a lower interest rate – saving taxpayer dollars.

When relocating to Williamson County, be sure to research the Cedar Park area and all it can offer. Great education, a strong economic backbone, beautiful communities and great Hill Country heritage await in the city of Cedar Park.

CEDAR PARK

P O P U L AT I O N

34 60.8K $274K

at a glance 52% FEMALE 48% MALE

MEDIAN AGE

HOUSING

$335K

MEDIAN EST. HOME VALUE

32% RENT 68% OWN

MEDIAN LIST PRICE

$82,311

MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME

E D U C AT I O N

30%

14%

BACHELOR DEGREE

GRADUATE DEGREE +

AVG. TRAVEL TIME TO WORK >1 HOUR 45-60 MIN 30-45 MIN 15-30 MIN < 15 MIN

6.70%

34% TWO-YEAR DEGREE

3.30%

BUSINESS

UNEMPLOYMENT RATE

11.60% 27.00% 34.60% 20.10%

1.21K

UNEMPLOYMENT NUMBER

35.5K 36.7K EMPLOYMENT NUMBER

LABOR FORCE NUMBER

SOURCE: TEXAS WORKFORCE COMMISSION, WILLIAMSON COUNTY ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®, 2017 WWW.WC L I F E. O R G

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GEORGETOWN The City of Georgetown is a great place to live, work and play. Georgetown has one of the healthiest business climates in the United States.

P H OTO S C O URT ESY O F WC L I F E

The local economy remains strong and robust, sales tax revenue continues to rise, housing starts have continued at a steady pace, and new and significant housing projects are planned or underway. Growth in Georgetown shows no signs of slowing down. Georgetownâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s proximity to the Austin metropolitan area and location along the I-35 corridor make an ideal location for people relocating to the area.

Georgetown has a dynamic and tight-knit business community. It is also home to one of the fastest-growing and most talented workforces in the nation, and companies located in Georgetown have access to a metropolitan area workforce of more than one million people. As a result of past and continuing community collaboration, the city of Georgetown was recently awarded the Workforce Excellence Award from the Texas Economic Development Council for implementing successful workforce initiatives to create and maintain a skilled workforce for current and future employers.

Georgetown has one of the lowest combined property tax rates in Central 72

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Texas, an excellent transportation system, a municipal airport and an extensive utility infrastructure.

Georgetownâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s outstanding quality of life is represented in the historic downtown area, outstanding parks and trails system, great schools and low crime rate.

Come see what Georgetown is all about. Great communities, plenty of jobs and beautiful scenery to enjoy.

The city of Georgetown offers all the perks that will make your family comfortable and successful moving to the Central Texas area.

GEORGETOWN

P O P U L AT I O N

at a glance

47

53% FEMALE 47% MALE

56.1K $274K

MEDIAN AGE

HOUSING

$359K

MEDIAN EST. HOME VALUE

27% RENT 73% OWN

MEDIAN LIST PRICE

$63,041

MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME

E D U C AT I O N

27%

17%

BACHELOR'S DEGREE

GRADUATE DEGREE +

AVG. TRAVEL TIME TO WORK >1 HOUR

8.10%

45-60 MIN

9.90%

TWO-YEAR DEGREE

3.90%

BUSINESS

UNEMPLOYMENT RATE

30-45 MIN

21.20%

15-30 MIN

28.10%

< 15 MIN

28%

32.80%

1.05K

UNEMPLOYMENT NUMBER

25.9K 26.9K EMPLOYMENT NUMBER

LABOR FORCE NUMBER

SOURCE: TEXAS WORKFORCE COMMISSION, WILLIAMSON COUNTY ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®, 2017 WWW.WC L I F E. O R G

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HUTTO The city of Hutto prides itself on preserving its history while forging ahead in the future.

PH OTO C O URT ESY O F WC L I F E

It was created in 1876 on five acres of land purchased by the International and Great Northern Railroad and has since grown into a vibrant city.

The city of Hutto is embarking on a long-anticipated revitalization and development project to make the Co-Op District and Downtown the proud center of their city. Their future development will allow their residents to stay and play in Hutto, offering a big-city experience with small-town quality of life.

Hutto is proud to offer a wide range of residential living choices, including established neighborhoods and new developments by KB Homes, Gehan Homes, Pulte, Wilshire Homes and many others.

Families will find room to play at the newly renovated Fritz Park, and the city has exciting plans for future park space as part of the Williamson County Regional Park plan, along with an amphitheater and sports fields.

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Hutto is home to an award-winning independent school district, with more than 6,600 students at 10 campuses, with continuously growing enrollment. Hutto High School, home to the only hippo mascot in the country, boasts a Career and Technical Education program with numerous certifications including culinary arts, health sciences, business and veterinarian programs. They are proud of their award-winning and state-recognized art, band, music and athletic programs, a state-awarded and nationally recognized FCCLA program, and their facilities. Hutto ISD is also the only district in the area to offer a full-day Head Start program.

Hutto is also the home of the East Williamson County Higher Education Center, a multi-institutional teaching center. EWCHEC provides a wide array of educational opportunities and a workforce readiness program with the convenience of going from a certificate to a graduate degree all in one location through a

partnership with Temple College, Texas State Technical College and Texas A&M University-Central Texas.

Hutto is “open for business,” and as the city aggressively and progressively pursues economic growth, it is proud to start construction on the Innovation Business Park. The Innovation Business Park will be the largest business park opened in Central Texas in the past several decades, and the city looks forward to business growing there.

HUTTO

P O P U L AT I O N

at a glance

31

52% FEMALE 48% MALE

20.1K $190K

MEDIAN AGE

HOUSING

$232K

MEDIAN EST. HOME VALUE

11% RENT 89% OWN

MEDIAN LIST PRICE

$71,836

MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME

E D U C AT I O N

17%

4%

BACHELOR'S DEGREE

GRADUATE DEGREE +

AVG. TRAVEL TIME TO WORK >1 HOUR 45-60 MIN 30-45 MIN

10.80%

< 15 MIN

23.00% 37.20% 15.80%

TWO-YEAR DEGREE

*3.30%

BUSINESS

UNEMPLOYMENT RATE

13.30%

15-30 MIN

41%

*9.31K *270K *279K UNEMPLOYMENT NUMBER

EMPLOYMENT NUMBER

LABOR FORCE NUMBER

SOURCE: TEXAS WORKFORCE COMMISSION, WILLIAMSON COUNTY ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®, 2017 * WILLIAMSON COUNTY STATISTICS WWW.WC L I F E. O R G

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JARRELL Centrally located on I-35 just north of Austin, Jarrell is just a short drive from four of the fastest-growing MSAs in the country. Experience small-town charm and spirit just minutes from Austin.

First, the city government and boards share a common vision, and their combined efforts are focused on “Creating Reality from Vision.”

The leadership of this community is focused on the goal of preserving their values and strengthening the economic tie that binds them together. They want this to be a great place for families to live, work and play.

The city of Jarrell is centrally located on Interstate Highway 35. The importance of I-35 is its link in the North American Free Trade Agreement, or NAFTA. Under NAFTA, transportation and trade flow fluidly from Canada to Mexico. NAFTA was signed in 1994 by the United States, Canada, and Mexico and has become the largest trade bloc in the world.

Jarrell sits right on top of it.

Jarrell is fortunate to be, at most, three and a half hours from some of the most significant consumer bases and manufacturing bases in Texas. Austin, San Antonio, Dallas/Ft. Worth, and Houston internationally recognized economic development engines, are driving business opportunities through and to Jarrell.

Beyond its location and transportation benefits, there is an abundance of reasonably priced land with favorable topography, the availability of a significant quality labor force, and a community that is focused on directing its growth in a positive manner. Incentives are available for the goal of expanding the economic base of Jarrell, with a desire to bring in more who share the values of Jarrell. The leadership in place is ready to develop the relationships necessary to make this happen.

The Jarrell Independent School District has outstanding leadership and is growing, fueled by continually-expanding subdivisions in all quadrants of the community.

Known for its laid-back lifestyle, more families are calling Jarrell home. And with the arrival of new citizens come the opportunities for entrepreneurs to play their role in growing Jarrell.

With this guide the city hopes you will agree that All Roads Lead to Jarrell. If you would like more information, stop by and visit the Chamber of Commerce and they will be happy to show you the many opportunities in Jarrell.

PH OTO C O URT ESY O F WC L I F E

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JARRELL

P O P U L AT I O N

at a glance

33

4K $159K

49% FEMALE 51% MALE

MEDIAN AGE

HOUSING

$208K

MEDIAN EST. HOME VALUE

26% RENT 74% OWN

MEDIAN LIST PRICE

$60,045

MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME

E D U C AT I O N

14%

4%

BACHELOR'S DEGREE

GRADUATE DEGREE +

AVG. TRAVEL TIME TO WORK >1 HOUR

7.70%

45-60 MIN

12.40% 31.50%

15-30 MIN

34.50% 14.00%

TWO-YEAR DEGREE

*3.30%

BUSINESS

UNEMPLOYMENT RATE

30-45 MIN

< 15 MIN

40%

*9.31K *270K *279K UNEMPLOYMENT NUMBER

EMPLOYMENT NUMBER

LABOR FORCE NUMBER

SOURCE: TEXAS WORKFORCE COMMISSION, WILLIAMSON COUNTY ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®, 2017 * WILLIAMSON COUNTY STATISTICS WWW.WC L I F E. O R G

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LEANDER

P HOTO COU RT ESY O F C I TY O F L EA N D ER

Conveniently located on the northern edge of the Greater Austin metropolitan area, Leander is one of the fastest-growing communities in Texas.

PH OTO S C O U RT ESY O F WC LIFE

Leander is known for its quality of life, excellent schools, hometown pride and one of the lowest crime rates in Texas.

Peaceful and family-friendly with beautiful scenic vistas, Leander is home to 52,000 residents who enjoy both Texas Hill Country and small-community amenities while being close to urban Austin business and entertainment, the State Capitol and Bergstrom International Airport.

Leander is well connected to Austin and its surrounding communities. The area is served by exceptional commuter rail and bus service operated by Capital Metro. The terminus of the rail line, Leander Station, links downtown Austin with Leander and serves as an excellent commuter alternative.

Superior transportation is one reason Leander and Williamson County have realized the fastest rate of income growth in Texas - the median household income in Leander was $75,983 in 2016.

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The continuous influx — 19,086 new Williamson County residents in 2015 alone - has contributed to Greater Austin achieving the nation’s fastest population growth rate in recent years. The growth has had a positive impact on Leander’s local economy, spurring nearly 1,500 new development and construction permits in 2016.

Leander offers endless opportunities for leisure and recreation as well, with a variety of cultural festivals and events, an active adult program, fitness classes, swimming programs, an 18-hole golf course and scenic parks and trails.

Residents and visitors enjoy Leander’s convenient access to the Hill Country and Austin, which offers additional opportunities for artistic, entertainment, and recreational pursuits.

Leander also has an excellent healthcare network and is served by a growing number of medical centers including Cedar Park Regional Hospital, St. David’s

Round Rock, Georgetown Medical Center, North Austin Medical Center and Scott & White.

Leander’s educational needs are served by the highly rated Leander Independent School District (LISD), serving more than 37,000 students in grades pre-K through 12. LISD is consistently ranked as one of the best school districts in Texas with a footprint of six high schools, eight middle schools and 25 elementary schools.

Those interested in pursuing higher education are within close proximity to University of Texas-Austin, Southwestern University, Texas State University and several Austin Community College campuses.

LEANDER

P O P U L AT I O N

at a glance

33

51% FEMALE 49% MALE

32.1K $227K

MEDIAN AGE

HOUSING

$325K

MEDIAN EST. HOME VALUE

23% RENT 77% OWN

MEDIAN LIST PRICE

$80,178

MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME

E D U C AT I O N

23%

10%

BACHELOR'S DEGREE

GRADUATE DEGREE +

AVG. TRAVEL TIME TO WORK >1 HOUR 45-60 MIN

9.40% 15.20%

30-45 MIN

29.10%

15-30 MIN

30.20%

< 15 MIN

16.00%

37% TWO-YEAR DEGREE

3.50%

BUSINESS

UNEMPLOYMENT RATE

696

UNEMPLOYMENT NUMBER

19.5K 20.2K EMPLOYMENT NUMBER

LABOR FORCE NUMBER

SOURCE: TEXAS WORKFORCE COMMISSION, WILLIAMSON COUNTY ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®, 2017 WWW.WC L I F E. O R G

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LIBERTY HILL

PH OTO C O URT ESY O F WC L I F E

The city of Liberty Hill offers a relaxing small-town atmosphere with easy access to services and activities that might be found only in larger cities.

P HOTO BY DY LAN W I L K E

Liberty Hill is strategically located in “the hub” of activities – arts & culture, wineries, live music, great shopping, local eateries, outstanding academics and athletics program, youth sports, outdoor activities, parks and more! Newcomers will find Liberty Hill to be both charming and friendly, with a vision toward the future. Liberty Hill also has beautiful pasture land, rolling hills, cliffs overlooking the San Gabriel River, hiking trails and safe neighborhoods.

The Liberty Hill Independent School District is among the highest-ranked school districts in the Central Texas area.

Elementary, middle and intermediate education is conducted in state-of-the-art facilities. LHISD has highly qualified staff, with the student / teacher ratio being one of the lowest in the state. A new Hill High School and stadium was completed in 2013.

Renovations and updates to the elementary and middle schools are taking place in the summer of 2017, and a new elementary 80

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school is opening in the fall of 2017. Liberty Hill is proud of its athletics department which includes several championships. The school district spreads over 100 square miles, is located entirely within Williamson County and recognized by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) as a “Recognized, Character Plus” District.

Liberty Hill locals are near art galleries, wineries, museums, live theater and fine eateries. The city's public library, Heart of the Hill Library, is a community learning center and place of enrichment through information, education and recreation.

The Liberty Hill library has more than 15,000 books and has programs for all ages throughout the year.

The area offers comprehensive healthcare services, covering all specialties, at St. David’s Georgetown Hospital, Cedar Park Regional Medical Center, Scott & White Hospital and Seton Hospitals.

Universities, colleges, art schools and culinary teaching facilities are located within commuting distance from Liberty Hill: The University of Texas at Austin, St. Edward’s University, Southwestern University, Central Texas College, Austin Community College, The Art Institute of Austin and Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Institute of Austin.

Liberty Hill is in the midst of dynamic growth and is among one of the fastestgrowing cities in the fastest-growing area in Central Texas. The leadership of Liberty Hill seeks to partner with businesses and developers to responsibly grow the city. If you are interested in doing business in Liberty Hill, call 512-778-5449 for more information.

LIBERTY HILL

P O P U L AT I O N

at a glance

37

10.1K $319K

51% FEMALE 49% MALE

MEDIAN AGE

HOUSING

$362K

MEDIAN EST. HOME VALUE

10% RENT 90% OWN

MEDIAN LIST PRICE

$78,915

MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME

E D U C AT I O N

22%

8%

BACHELOR'S DEGREE

GRADUATE DEGREE +

AVG. TRAVEL TIME TO WORK >1 HOUR 45-60 MIN

9.60% 22.10% 31.20%

30-45 MIN 15-30 MIN

22.00%

< 15 MIN

15.10%

38% TWO-YEAR DEGREE

*3.30%

BUSINESS

UNEMPLOYMENT RATE

*9.31K *270K *279K UNEMPLOYMENT NUMBER

EMPLOYMENT NUMBER

LABOR FORCE NUMBER

SOURCE: TEXAS WORKFORCE COMMISSION, WILLIAMSON COUNTY ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®, 2017 * WILLIAMSON COUNTY STATISTICS WWW.WC L I F E. O R G

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ROUND ROCK Round Rock has been well known for its strong economy and affordable cost of living. Round Rock has also been nationally recognized for its school system, its pro-business government and as the safest community in the country.

P HOTOS COU RTESY O F T H E C I TY O F R O UN D R O C K

Round Rock is the one of the fastestgrowing cities in the nation and one of the best-managed cities in Texas. The city has maintained a high standard of living while becoming a major center for economic growth in Central Texas, with industry clusters in clean energy, advanced manufacturing, life sciences and computer/software development.

Major employers include Dell, Sears Teleserv, Emerson and Texas Guaranteed Student Loan. Its combined property tax and utility rates are among the lowest in the region. It has an award-winning park system and school district, and has been recognized as one of the safest cities in the country with a population of at least 100,000 people.

As the winner of the prestigious Comprehensive Planning Award from the Texas Chapter of the American Planning Association and a 3CMA Savvy Award for Community Visioning, the city prides itself on its long-term planning.

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In a 2014 survey of city residents, 93 percent of respondents said they felt “safe” or “very safe” overall, with 90 percent saying they felt safe in downtown (21 points higher than the national rating) and 86 percent felt safe in city parks (21 points higher than the national rating).

The city has a dozen transportation projects under construction. The City Council approved a Transportation Master Plan in January 1999 that is updated regularly. The city’s Transportation Capital Improvement Plan contains $415 million worth of projects. The city’s half-cent sales tax levy for transportation will pay for $125 million of that total.

The City of Round Rock has brilliantly configured their infrastructure to incorporate the needs of their city and created activity centers for families and individuals of all ages. The crown jewel of the city's park system, Old Settler's Park, is expansive and multi-purposeful. It encompasses all of the outdoor sporting needs

people may have, from open green space to baseball/softball fields, soccer, football, and even disc golf fields! The city continues to grow its offerings and now has batting cages, tennis courts, nature trails, and BBQ pits to make any day outdoors complete.

When the Texas heat calls for fun in the water, Rock'N River Water Park is right there adjacent to Old Settler's Park. The park is a perfect way to beat the heat and have fun in the sun.

ROUND ROCK

P O P U L AT I O N

at a glance

33

51% FEMALE 49% MALE

110K $244K

MEDIAN AGE

HOUSING

$294K

MEDIAN EST. HOME VALUE 39% RENT 61% OWN

MEDIAN LIST PRICE

$72,412

MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME

E D U C AT I O N

26%

11%

BACHELOR'S DEGREE

GRADUATE DEGREE +

AVG. TRAVEL TIME TO WORK >1 HOUR

6.00%

20.40% 40.10%

15-30 MIN < 15 MIN

24.40%

TWO-YEAR DEGREE

3.20%

BUSINESS

UNEMPLOYMENT RATE

45-60 MIN 9.00% 30-45 MIN

34%

2.09K 62.2K 64.3K UNEMPLOYMENT NUMBER

EMPLOYMENT NUMBER

LABOR FORCE NUMBER

SOURCE: TEXAS WORKFORCE COMMISSION, WILLIAMSON COUNTY ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®, 2017 WWW.WC L I F E. O R G

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TAYLOR Taylor is a progressive city in East Williamson County dedicated to growing through creativity and innovation.

P H OTO S C O U RT ESY O F TAYLO R MA R KETING PARTNERSHIP

Here, they encourage the entrepreneurial spirit with a slice of (award-winning) barbecue and a side of southern charm.

Small-town values merge with forward thinking to create a place you want to call home.

The Heart of the Barbecue Trail, Taylor is home to the best barbecue in the nation. Let one of the pitmasters at Louie Mueller’s on Second Street, Davis Barbecue and Grocery on Robinson or Taylor Café on Main Street fill you with the pride of their community.

Quench your thirst at our local craft brewery Texas Beer Company and enjoy the unique antique, boutique and specialty shops along Second and Main streets.

Famous citizens of Taylor include Elmer “Pet” Brown (1888-1923), who won the world’s middleweight crown in wrestling in 1914. Also native to Taylor, Bill Pickett (1870-1932), who was a black cowboy, began the practice of “bulldogging” or 84

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steer wrestling and in 1971 was posthumously inducted into the Cowboy Hall of Fame. There is a bronze statue of him outside Taylor Beer Company and at the Fort Worth Rodeo Grounds.

Taylor offers prime commercial space close to all modes of transportation and retail venues steeped in history and imagination. The Chamber membership is indicative of a diverse mix of commerce, manufacturing and entrepreneurship.

Taylor is a vibrant city brimming with history, tradition and momentum. With growth fueled by a thriving economy, a sense of achievement and a location second to none, it is nestled in Williamson County, one of the fastest-growing areas in the nation.

Taylor is within 30 miles of downtown Austin, the heart of Texas government, technology, music and higher education.

Their school system features Legacy Early College High School where students can earn their high school diploma and associate’s degree at the same time with no cost to the student.

Legacy has been recognized by the Texas Education Agency and Education Service Center Region 13 in Austin as a demonstration high-performing campus for its incorporation of best practices.

From the city park system and abundant water supply, to the new County Exposition Center and coming-soon downtown skate park, to acres of ready land and a low cost of living – experience “Taylor-Made Texas!”

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P O P U L AT I O N

at a glance

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16.3K $159K

52% FEMALE 48% MALE

MEDIAN AGE

HOUSING

$197K

MEDIAN EST. HOME VALUE

41% RENT 59% OWN

MEDIAN LIST PRICE

$42,793

MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME

E D U C AT I O N

9%

5%

BACHELOR'S DEGREE

GRADUATE DEGREE +

AVG. TRAVEL TIME TO WORK >1 HOUR 45-60 MIN 30-45 MIN 15-30 MIN < 15 MIN

7.60%

26% TWO-YEAR DEGREE

3.30%

BUSINESS

UNEMPLOYMENT RATE

14.80% 22.90% 18.60% 36.10%

9.31K

UNEMPLOYMENT NUMBER

270K

EMPLOYMENT NUMBER

279K

LABOR FORCE NUMBER

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APARTMENT LIVING Anchored by the booming tech industry, the Texas Hill Country is gaining traction as one of the most successful economies in the nation. Headlines continue to report that those in declining regions of the country are packing up and moving to the land of bluebonnets, dreams and opportunities. Once in Texas heaven, people now must decide where to unpack and build those dreams. Selecting a city in which to reside is just the beginning of the decisions involved in relocating. If you drill down, you are confronted with other questions, the most pressing, of course, where should you live and what best fits your lifestyle?

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PH OTO C O URT ESY O F PA R K AT C RYSTA L FA L LS

More factors which are clamoring for attention are related to the always-present monetary budget. Is it financially more advantageous to live in a condo or an apartment? A top priority for many is education, so the proximity and ratings of schools are important issues. Is there easy access to roads and highways for an easy commute, medical facilities, shopping complexes, dining establishments and houses of worship?

While questions bombard you, you may temporarily lose sight of the sheer splendor of the Texas Hill Country. With the backdrop of rolling hills, expansive horizons, and majestic trees you at least know you are in the right place geographically. Hundreds of communities are sprinkled across the region, that 150 years ago, was just used for cattle and organic farms. While the lifestyles of residents have changed since then, so much of the natural beauty remains.

Here in Williamson County, you can enjoy a unique experience in apartment home living. Some are not simply apartments, but a lifestyle. Many who relocate here are anxious to buy a home and they view the purchase of a condo or signing an apartment home lease as temporary.

Still others donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want the hassles that accompany a mortgage, including lawn and property maintenance, property taxes and association dues. This group is

content to reside indefinitely in either an apartment home or a condo.

Contracts are involved in each scenario, but terms and length may vary. Once time has passed and condo owners wish to sell, they face the same hurdles as do homeowners; a REALTORÂŽ normally is involved in the transaction, which means a commission will be paid.

While selling a condo may require additional steps, such a REALTORÂŽ, apartment living also has its own challenges. Apartment home tenants must give the landlord advanced notice of impending departure. When a contract is broken, there could be substantial penalties incurred.

Amenities with all the Bells and Whistles

Tenants in Williamson County apartment homes and condos relish in sophisticated living. These quaint garden-style communities are thoughtfully designed with fun and convenience in mind.

One goal of apartment and condo designers is to encourage a sense of community, which is what inspires the creation of spacious clubhouse complexes.

These clubhouses are often available for tenants to rent and host their own private events.

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» HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS At first glance, many perks that are offered by apartment homes and condos may seem similar. Most offer a sunlit tropical atmosphere, exhilarating swimming pools with generous sundecks, highly desirable locations, gated entrances, captivating decorative interior cabinet finishes and upgraded energy-efficient appliances.

Some offer balconies or covered patios, high airy ceilings, oversized baths and spacious closets.

Some apartment homes are constructed to allow tenants to enjoy the comforts of a traditional home while in a stylish low-hassle community. Some prefer the apartment home lifestyle because of the freedom and convenience it offers.

Many provide tenants with 24-hour access to state-of-the-art fitness centers which are equipped with weights and machines to help you burn calories and strengthen those abs. This type of convenience will no doubt inspire you to be more proactive in health and wellness, and it may also prompt you to cancel your membership to a gym that’s expensive and miles away. You are sure to find a place where you can reallocate those savings.

Apartment homes and condos are miles apart from those of yesteryear. These structures showcase contemporary or modern architecture as well as rich Texas history. They feature various floor plans and some have garage parking.

If you are a socially-motivated individual, you will find excellent opportunities for socializing whether in the clubhouse, at the pool pavilion or in the fitness center.

And many of the newer complexes have installed outdoor grills and fire pits with comfortable seating areas.

Finding An Apartment In Williamson County

Prospective home buyers who love the allure of Williamson County, but haven't decided which home to purchase will have plenty of apartments to choose from.

And moving into an apartment won’t be cramping your style, especially if you consider all the new luxury developments that you have to choose from.

New developments typically offer units as small as studios, all the way up to three-bedroom units. Leasing options generally vary, and can range anywhere

from two to 24 months. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Williamson County is $1250 a month.

As a general rule of thumb, it is best to discuss monthly rent with the property complex to ensure that one is staying within their budget.

Space is an important factor to consider when choosing a new apartment, however some larger units offer as much living space as many starter homes.

Some builders had a goal of designing something that’s distinctive from the competition. Some of their amenities include a car care center, screened in lanai, playscape and fitness center. The stunning, pristine swimming pool is one you’d expect to find at an upscale resort.

Once you are locked into an apartment lease, you will know the exact amount of rent to include in your budget.

Apartment landlords will nearly always repair or replace broken appliances, so when the dishwasher in an apartment needs a tombstone, it shouldn’t cost you anything.

The demographics in Williamson County reveal the population is highly-educated, and employed and earning a good living.

Therefore, it’s highly unlikely that a property – apartment or condo – would fall into disrepair. However, to be sure you end up in the area or property that fits your expectations, using an apartment locator is a popular, and inexpensive, way to do just that. A good apartment locating service will do the research for you and make sure they show you properties that suit your lifestyle and budget. These services are free of charge and can save you not only money, but time.

Dwelling Safely

Upon your initial inspection of Williamson Country, you probably noticed the serenity and ultra-low crime rate. Whether you select an apartment home or a condo in which to reside, you will most likely live within a secure and

PH OTO CO U RT ESY O F T H E STA NDA R D AT LEA NDER STATION

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» HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS gated community. Knowing that many security and other law enforcement personnel roam the streets 24/7 should help you rest easy – day or night.

You probably will have no trouble finding an apartment home or condo that will accommodate your beloved pets. Yet, you can count on a pet deposit fee and perhaps other fees set by each landlord. It is in the best interest of those with pets to ask about the policies of the apartments to ensure a pet-friendly option if that is what you are seeking.

This guide serves only as a snapshot to illustrate how grand life can be in Williamson County, regardless of where you call home.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT NEIGHBORHOOD FOR YOU

Round Rock

Round Rock is certainly a bustling area in the Williamson County region.

With great a great economic climate and people continually relocating to the area there is plenty of great options when it comes to apartment living. As of June 2017, the average apartment rent within the city of Round Rock averaged at about $1,203 per month. A one-bedroom apartment in Round Rock came in at roughly $1,000 per month while a two bedroom came in at $1,307 per month.

Finding a great apartment in Round Rock can be a little tedious, only because there are so many options to select from. Apartments are becoming more competitive with luxury amenities to keep their tenants comfortable in their complexes. Additionally, the need to be “green” has upped the expectations of apartments.

Palm Valley Apartments A great example of apartment living in Round Rock, Palm Valley Apartments offers multiple floor plans to choose from with crown molding, garden tubs 90

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Hundreds of communities are sprinkled across the region, that 150 years ago, was just used for cattle and organic farms. While the lifestyles of residents have changed since then, so much of the natural beauty remains. and wood blinds. Not only are the apartments modern, but the complex also features fantastic amenities such as: a resort style pool, coffee bar equipped with Wi-Fi and a cozy outdoor fireplace for those cool evenings.

Camden La Frontera Camden La Frontera has a set of unique features as well. What sets these apartments apart from others is that they have a pet park and spa located right on their property. Tenants can also take advantage of their onsite yoga studio or just relax in the resident lounge.

Apartments come with stainless steel appliance packages, granite counter tops, pendant lighting and faux wood floors. New residents will appreciate the contemporary vibe of the Camden La Frontera apartments.

Georgetown

The city of Georgetown is no stranger when it comes to fantastic options for those who love apartment living.

Currently the average rent of an apartment in Georgetown is $1,021 per month. The median average for a studio apartment is $659, and a one-bedroom apartment comes in at about $957. If searching for a larger unit, you can expect average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment to run around $1,180 and a 3-bedroom unit will come in roughly around $1,255.

Hillstone at Wolf Ranch Choices in Georgetown are pretty vast when selecting that perfect complex to settle down into. A popular option would be the brand new Hillstone at Wolf Ranch luxury apartments, where

they serve up panoramic vistas daily.

With top-notch amenities, spacious floor plans, and a fully-equipped fitness center, Hillstone feels more like a luxurious retreat than an apartment home.

Each unit offers 10’ ceilings, private balcony, granite countertops, oversize baths and stainless-steel energy star appliances. There is no shortage of space, with walk-in closets, and 42” custom cabinetry in the kitchens. Wind down at the end of the day by relaxing in the sparkling swimming pool.

Rivery Park Rivery Park Apartments are some of the newest in the area and have plush amenities. They offer various floor plans, granite countertops, chef-style kitchens and onsite bike storage. For your pleasure, they have added an urban clubhouse complete with wi-fi and print station, a media wall and latte/tea bar.

The Summit at Rivery Park Billed as Texas’ first high-end, mixed-use development nestled on 32 acres of premium real estate, the Summit at Rivery Park overlooks the North San Gabriel River near I-35. The Sheraton Hotel serves as the anchor at The Summit which will offer a mix of upscale offices, retail, boutiques and restaurants.

The city continues to encourage additional retail projects, especially along I-35.

Cedar Park

Finding an affordable apartment home in Cedar Park will be easy for those moving to the area. Current average apartment rent in the area is an average of $1,251. One-bedroom apartments

average at around $1,051 per month, while two-bedroom average rent is $1,362.

Regal Parc If you prefer luxury apartment residences, you can immerse yourself at Regal Parc, a boutique-sized apartment community in the desirable suburb of Cedar Park.

A bounty of impeccable amenities are available to those with a discerning taste.

Whether you take a dip in their refreshing resort-style pool or work on your cardio routine to get energized, Regal Parc has something for everyone.

Regal Parc Apartment Homes blend style and comfort to match your lifestyle. Select from their one, two or three bedrooms which boast custom features including separate breakfast areas, garden baths and relaxing patios. You can choose a one bedroom beginning at $977 which has 827 square feet, or a two bedroom as large as 1,100 square feet for about $1,350.

Three-bedroom units are scarce but when available, they provide 1,361 square feet of comfortable living space for about $1,650.

Regal Parc has a two-pet limit and asks for a deposit as well as a pet fee.

Leander

Currently in Leander, apartment rent is relatively affordable. Average rent of an apartment comes in at a median price of $1,115 per month. A one-bedroom apartment home is roughly $994. If more space is required, one can expect to pay around $1,450 for a two-bedroom apartment

Park at Crystal Falls The Park at Crystal Falls, Leander’s newest premier luxury apartment homes, is perfect for those seeking luxury living.

This savvy community was created to put everything you need at your fingertips.

Apartments include epicurean kitchens with decorative finishes and luxurious spa-inspired baths. Residents can select from a variety of smartly designed floor plans beginning at 576 to 1,446 square feet priced from $935 to around $1,500 per month, respectively. As an added

P HOTO COU RTESY OF REGAL PARC APARTME N T HOMES

bonus, residents enjoy extra touches of built-in USB outlets and stylish pendant lighting. Each apartment home is equipped with a washer and dryer for your added convenience.

These apartments are infused with plenty of perks including a resort-worthy swimming pool, and a 24-hour ultramodern fitness center including spin bikes. An opulent clubhouse and an outdoor kitchen and stunning sundeck are only a few of the amenities that can be yours at Park at Crystal Falls.

The Standard Another premium choice for luxury apartment residences is The Standard.

Don’t let the name deceive you; there’s nothing ‘standard’ about these homes in this premier community in Leander.

You may choose one of 14 different floor plans, ranging from 673 to1,024 square feet for $1,005 to $1,375 per month, respectively. Each of these contemporary homes is equipped with stainless-steel appliances – including washer and dryer – two-inch faux wood blinds, and granite countertops. Brimming with perks, The Standard features a BBQ grilling cabana, chef-inspired outdoor kitchen, luxuriously refreshing swimming pool, fully-equipped fitness center with spin bikes, and a cyber cafe lounge.

Those who want to connect with nature can take a jaunt on the biking and hiking trail. Extra options are available including private or covered parking. This pet friendly community has a four-pet per unit limit. More details are available from their leasing office.

Hutto

It is not hard to find a great apartment community in Hutto. The current average rent of an apartment within the city of Hutto is around $1,224 per month. A one-bedroom apartment comes in at a median price of $1,085 and a two-bedroom averages out at $1,238.

Marquis at Star Ranch There are many great properties to select from when searching for an apartment in Hutto, one of which is the Marquis at Star Ranch. This luxury apartment complex sits just adjacent to the Star Ranch Country Club. They offer one, two, three and four bedroom options that are both spacious and luxurious. All apartments come with gourmet kitchens, granite countertops and stainless-steel appliances. Residents will enjoy their first-rate amenities that include a spectacular resort-style swimming pool.

Fairways at Star Ranch The Fairways at Star Ranch is also located right at the 16th, 17th and 18th greens of the Star Ranch Golf Club.

Those who live at this luxury community appreciate the remote-controlled access gates as well as the beautiful course view and care. All plans have home-style kitchens, nine-foot ceilings and roman bath tubs. Another perk of living at the Fairways at Star Ranch is their efforts to be green by having all units equipped with energy-efficient double pane windows and ceiling fans.

No matter which community and property you decide on, you are sure to have plenty of amenities to make your move to Williamson County seemless.

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ACTIVE ADULTS

Williamson County has become a destination for not only the young, but the young at heart. Retirees are finding Williamson County provides the perfect balance for an active lifestyle along with plenty of relaxation. Whether you spend your days on the golf course, hiking the nature trails or spending time on the lake, your perfect retirement starts here. Seniors relocating to Williamson County are finding a wide variety of options that can accommodate their budget, while allowing the pursuit of their personal interests and activities.

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HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS People are living longer and more exciting lives as aging has taken on a whole new perspective. As the sayings go, fifty is the new thirty, and seventy is the new fifty!

Active lifestyles and healthy living have transformed the golden years of retirement into some of the richest and most active years of people's lives. As seniors move into Williamson County, they find a wide variety of housing options that accommodate their budget, while enjoying their lifestyle in a community that encourages the development and pursuit of their personal interests, goals, and activities.

While aging is inevitable, medical advances and healthy lifestyle choices help increase the number of years a person may live, as well as improve that person’s lifestyle.

The result is that the demographics for seniors in the Williamson County area have undergone some significant changes: the term “senior” may describe an active person in his/her late 50s or someone in his/her early 80s.

Fortunately, Williamson County offers a wide array of options in many communities to accommodate the different requirements and lifestyles of its seniors.

From upscale retirement communities offering residents a choice of social, cultural, travel and sporting opportunities to full-care facilities specializing in caring for the elderly with mental and physical disabilities, there is a senior citizen living solution to fit every need in a community that fits any lifestyle.

According to Paying for Senior Care (www.payingforseniorcare.com), the cost of private senior-care housing averages $3,600 per month nationwide, depending on the services and degree of care offered by a facility. Many senior-care housing communities employ medically trained staff, provide housekeeping and meal preparation services, as well as transportation for shopping, medical visits and social outings. HUD also notes that as baby boomers approach their retirement years, the trend toward creating active retirement communities where residents are active and involved will continue, encouraging

Active lifestyles and healthy living have transformed the golden years of retirement into some of the richest and most active years of people's lives. As seniors move into Williamson County, they find a wide variety of housing options. seniors to live at a level of independence comfortable for them. “The time to begin thinking about a retirement community isn’t when you must have it,” advises Terry Martinez with Parmer Woods Retirement & Assisted Living in Austin.

“The time to think about it is when you don’t need it. There are not enough retirement communities to keep up with the demand, and you want to be sure that you know your options and what’s available beforehand.”

Martinez says that more than 60 percent of her facility’s residents are not from Austin, but have moved here when their adult children have decided to relocate to Central Texas. Martinez also credits websites that focus on relocation as a source for families to learn more about retirement communities and senior living options.

The following section includes a list of Williamson County area senior living communities and care facilities. With so many options and levels of care, this is a very small sampling of what is available in Williamson County. For more information, consult the articles and resources found on www.wclife.org

Retirement & Senior Living Bluffs Landing Senior Village Apartments 3201 Bluffs Landing Way Round Rock, 78665; 512-238-1400 www.merrittcommunities.com

The Bluffs Landing Senior Village Apartments has a great location close to Windermere and Pflugerville. They have a great selection of one- and two-bedroom floor plans. Each unit has track lighting, generous closet space, 9-foot ceilings and a private patio or balcony. This is a pet-friendly facility. Bluffs Landing Senior Village also hosts many social events geared around arts, crafts, games and more.

Court at Round Rock 2700 Sunrise Rd., Round Rock, 78665 512-640-5053; www.seniorlifestyle.com The Court at Round Rock has some wonderful senior living options. There are sensational staffers who can help with housekeeping and any maintenance issues that occur. Each room is luxurious, with breakfast and dinner options created by a lovely culinary staff. Also, there are fantastic enrichment programs available for residents.

Holiday Retirement – Highland Estates 1500 N. Lakeline Blvd., Cedar Park, 78613 512-969-6112; www.holidaytouch.com Holiday Retirement is a pioneer in allowing seniors to live independently.

Their Highland Estates location is situated in Cedar Park, Texas. This community is 30 minutes from Austin. Residents enjoy chef-prepared meals in the community dining room and are able to stay active with their social events calendar. Highland Estates hosts beanbag baseball, Wii golf, knitting circles and more.

Lakeline Oaks Retirement Resort 1905 S. Lakeline Blvd., Cedar Park, 78613 512-267-3281; www.rlcommunities.com Resort Lifestyle Communities are some of the best senior living accommodations around, and Williamson County has one WWW.WC L I F E. O R G

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»

» HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS in the form of Lakeline Oaks Retirement Resort. They offer dining options, a multitude of leisurely activities, and amenities that can’t be beaten. On site, there are gourmet chefs and even valet hosts to help park your car when you arrive or leave the premise.

Leander Station Senior Village 11450 Old 2243 W., Leander, 78641 512-260-6700; www.merrittcommunities.com The Leander Station Senior Village, connected with Merritt Communities, are senior apartments located in Leander, Texas. They offer open floor plans that give residents plenty of space and kitchens with beautiful granite countertops. Each rental home also comes with Whirlpool Energy Star Stainless Steel appliances and a private patio or balcony. Close in proximity to both Austin and Round Rock, Leander Station Senior Village is the perfect place to settle down.

Merritt Heritage 4700 Williams Dr., Georgetown, 78633 512-574-3589; www.merrittcommunities.com Merritt Heritage, connected with Merritt Communities, are senior apartments in Williamson County. The complex is a 4-story building with one- or two-bedroom options. The staff wants each resident to feel comfortable, so they can bring their belongings to add to the luxurious lifestyle. Come see how they promote wellness daily.

Merritt Legacy Apartments 1350 Sonny Dr., Leander, 78641 512-379-0333; www.merrittcommunities.com Merritt Legacy Apartments are located in Leander and are just a drive away from Cedar Park. Each unit is designed with faux wood flooring, full-size washer and dry connections, generous closet space and double-paned windows. This community is pet-friendly and even has a bark park for residents to enjoy time with their four-legged friends.

Parkwood Meadows 310 Chisholm Trail, Round Rock, 78681 512-900-4602; www.holidaytouch.com Holiday Retirement is a pioneer in allowing seniors to live independently.

Their Round Rock location at Parkwood Meadows is located just outside of Georgetown and is about 30 minutes away from Austin. Apartment features include: cable television, telephone hookups, patio or balcony units and emergency response services. They have a personable staff to make each day special, and their calendar of events is chock-full of entertainment for everyone.

Provident Crossing Retirement Resort 1950 South A.W. Grimes Blvd., Round Rock, 78664 512-782-9034; www.rlcommunities.com Provident Crossing in Round Rock is another amazing senior living option from Resort Lifestyle Communities.

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The community is geared for adults 55 and over. They offer dining options, a multitude of leisurely activities, and amenities that can’t be beaten. On site, there are gourmet chefs and valet attendants to park your car whenever needed.

San Gabriel Senior Village Apartments 2101 Railroad St., Georgetown, 78626 512-864-9475; www.merrittcommunities.com San Gabriel Senior Village Apartments, connected with Merritt Communities, are senior apartments in Williamson County. The facility has a 4-story building with one- or two-bedroom options available. Amenities include a movie theater, a fully-equipped fitness center and a hair salon/barber shop.

This is a pet-friendly facility.

Solea Cedar Park 1560 Juliette Way, Cedar Park, 78613 512-581-5899; www.soleacedarpark.com Solea Cedar Park is a boutique, resort style, 55+ active adult community. This new housing concept located in Cedar Park is full of fantastic amenities that include: resort pool with sun deck, weekly fitness classes, fenced-in dog park, theater and much more. Their apartments are open-concept with chef-inspired kitchens and roomy walk-in closets.

Residents will enjoy the 9-foot ceilings, granite countertops and stainless steel GE appliance package. All units include full-size washer and dryers.

The Oaks Gracious Retirement Living 3720 Williams Dr., Georgetown, 78628 512-360-0077; www.seniorlivinginstyle.com The Oaks Gracious Retirement Living is a wonderful facility that is safe and secure.

With 24-hour-a-day management teams, there are always staff on campus to help out.

Also, food is served if needed by fantastic chefs – all made from scratch. Residents can enjoy the planned activities that enable them to be social with their community, such as cultural events and day trips to museums and other places of interest.

COMMUNITY AMENITIES • Resort Pool with Sun Deck • 24-Hour Communnity Center • Resident Coffee & Wine Bar • Weekly Fitness Classes • Water Aerobics, Yoga • Library • Pet Friendly • Manicured Courtyards • Active Social Calendar • Happy Hours • 24-Hour Cardio & Strength Center

• • • • • • •

• • •

Outdoor Grilling Stations Private Yards Available Fenced-in Dog Park Daily Resident Socials Craft Room Outdoor Soft Seating 24-Hour Computer Room with Wifi, Printer, Scanner and Fax Controlled Access Gates Detached Garages and Carports Addional Storage Space Available

• • • •

Walk-in Glass Showers Luxurious Garden Tubs* Fenced-in Backyards* Full Size Washers and Dryers Included

HOME AMENITIES • • • •

•

Chef-Inspired Kitchens Two-Tone Granite Countertops Hardwood Floors* Stainless Steel GE Appliance Package Expansive Walk-in Closets

*Select Models

THIS IS THE

LIFE LEISURE + RECREATION

Williamson County is packed with great activities for the entire family. Many of these activities are centered on the beautiful landscape that Williamson County is known for. The rolling plains play a large part in recreational activity in the Texas Wine Country. The southwest and western portions of the county feature heavy population areas that offer leisure and recreation to many people on a grand scale. The eastern reaches of the county offer the rural, environment-centered activities that the beautiful Texas Hill Country is known for.

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» LEISURE AND RECREATION Williamson County has a variety of options for lodging and camping that are sure to offer great value to the entire family. Rio Bonito Cabin Resort and RV Park is in Georgetown, where there are wonderful amenities such as rental cabins, full hook-ups for an RV, hiking, fishing, biking, swimming, scenic driving and bird watching, volleyball, horseshoes and so much more. Part of the benefits of living in Williamson County is the accessibility you have to so many outdoor activities. With the Hill Country backdrop, any outdoor lover will swoon over the availability of so many great parks and trails to check out. If you wanted to venture out for the weekend and have a staycation, there are an abundance of places to stay while you are in Williamson County, like the Comfort Inn, Best Western Cedar Inn and Austin Marriott North, among other options.

There are many opportunities for sailing and jet skiing on the lake, as well as over 125 campsites in the area. With hiking trails, beaches and a playground, there is plenty to do at Granger Lake.

The Lake at Georgetown is a reservoir lake with almost 1,300 surface acres created from the dam. While at the lake, consider doing some fishing and boating as you navigate the aquatic vegetation of this beautiful landscape. This lake is an open concept lake that is largely revolved around a masterfully constructed dam.

Most early spring days, fishermen will get as close as is allowed to this dam to try and catch that big striped bass. In addition to taking in the outdoor spaces of Williamson County, there are plenty of other things to do, especially if you are looking to give yourself some well-deserved "you" time.

Part of the benefits of living in Williamson County is the accessibility you have to so many outdoor activities.

With the Hill Country backdrop, any outdoor lover will swoon over the availability of so many great parks and trails to check out.

There are two lakes that are among the most popular activity sites in the entire area. Granger Lake is known more for a family dynamic, with great hiking and camping options. Georgetown Lake is known more for fishing and boating, as you will typically see numerous bass fishing boats tucked into the coves and shoreline of this beautiful lake.

Granger Lake is quickly becoming one of the more popular lakes in the area. Full of large bass and crappie this lake attracts anglers along with families looking for a day full of action packed fishing. There are over 10,000 acres of hunting to take advantage of as well. This is unique in itself for a lake to have this as an option.

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Williamson County is home to many deluxe spas. Consider giving up part or all of a day to the Beleza MedSpa. This spa offers a wide range of treatments that could help you relax while in Williamson County. Also popular in the area is the Halina European Day Spa and Salon. With locations in the Central Austin area and Round Rock, they are always accessible to patrons looking to take advantage of their luxurious massages and facials. Get a trendy haircut or treat yourself to a pedicure - you'll feel refreshed and ready for your next adventure in Texas.

Perhaps the most attractive of Williamson County's offerings is

the wide variety of dining options.

Williamson County offers a unique experience depending on where you are.

The southwestern portion of Williamson County features modern dining with great atmosphere and an urban touch. A short drive to the eastern portions of the county will provide the Southern dining experience with some of the best BBQ in the state. The entire area is home to some of the best “Wine and Dine” in the area. Bowties 2 Blue Jeans Catering Company offers excellent service and food, to make every meal “a memorable occasion.” Another popular option is Jack Allen's Kitchen, where you can enjoy a wide variety of southwestern cuisine. Owner and chef Jack Gilmore has encapsulated the rich history of Texas within his cuisine. You also must check out all the BBQ options in the area; you are in Texas after all. Try the likes of Rudy's Country Store and Bar-B-Q or Salt Lick BBQ and get a taste of what Texas has to offer. Another recommendation is to try the Tex-Mex restaurants in the area – another Hill Country staple.

There are plenty of fine places such as Chuy’s and Torchy’s Tacos to get a good taste of a local favorite.

The Willamson County area is not shy of great places for some adult down time.

If you are looking for entertainment, head on over to Fast Eddie’s Round Rock. This sports bar is great for big events, like the NBA Finals, or for small ones, like a quiet Tuesday evening.

Another popular choice is one of the many specialty bars or wine bars in the area. Try The Brass Tap, Wine Sensations or even The Grove Wine Bar & Kitchen. You will not be disappointed by any of the highly-rated pubs or tasting rooms available in the area.

Overall, Williamson County offers a unique variety of activities that will suit the fancy of both the rural and urban-minded family. From great outdoor activities to fine cuisine, you'll find something for everyone here in Williamson County.

ATTRACTIONS

While Williamson County continues to grow, it holds tight to its history - a foundation that shapes the area's identity today.

The county has consistently doubled in size every 14 years, but manages to maintain its rural, Texas living. Even as industries attract new residents and an increasing number of college students funnel in, Williamson County maintains its downhome feel. It's the perfect mix of the old and the new, a unique blend of country charm and fresh perspective.

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Âť LEISURE AND RECREATION Family Fun

There are plenty of fun and educational family attractions that can be found in Williamson County. Some popular local favorites include skate parks, a train museum, concerts, libraries, movies, baseball games, farmers markets â&#x20AC;&#x201C; just to name a few. Williamson County has a population that has shifted to a younger median age. This, in turn, means that the overall number of family-centered activities has increased. Williamson County provides numerous options for family fun that prove valuable to both children and adults alike.

If your family enjoys getting some air to complete 360s, put on a helmet and some knee pads and head over to skate parks in Cedar Park and Leander. Make sure to follow the rules that are in place, and you will have a great time with the whole family. If the family does not move at quite that pace, consider heading out to the Austin Steam Train Association in Cedar Park. Take a trip across the Texas countryside while enjoying a meal on board. The entire family is sure to have a wonderful, relaxing time.

Music is always a great family affair. Look into the H-E-B Center at Cedar Park for bands that will be coming into the area.

You might end up finding a band or event you want your family to see. Williamson County offers many valuable activities in the arts as well. In addition to annual art festivals and galleries, there are many notable libraries that offer year-round opportunities for children and adults alike. A visit to Georgetown, Liberty Hill or Round Rock will provide your family with great options for movie viewing.

You'll find comfortable, modern movie theatres in Williamson County that will keep you coming back for more. And don't forget the popcorn!

Another great idea is to take your family out to a ballgame with the Round Rock Express minor league team. The Express is an affiliate of the major league Texas Rangers. If you prefer college sports, take a short drive to Austin and take in a game 10 0

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or two at The University of Texas. The school is notorious for having some of the best athletics programs in the country.

The University of Texas has some of the most notorious athletic programs in the entire country.

Williamson County has achieved a considerable variety of family entertainment. There is great opportunity for families to experience many different activities that are all unique and valuable. With the growth and overall modernization of Williamson County, there are new opportunities for family entertainment being added each year.

Below is a list of a few favorites: Austin Steam Train Association 401 E. Whitestone Blvd., St., C-100 Cedar Park, 78613; 512-477-8468 www.austinsteamtrain.org The Austin Steam Train Association (ASTA) was created to preserve the history of steam-engine trains. Since 1956, the ASTA has been transporting people with enjoyment across beautiful Texas.

Florence Public Library 207 E. Main St., Florence, 76527 254-793-2672; www.florencepubliclibrary.wordpress.com The Florence Public Library has events monthly at their location. They bring in authors to have book signings for the whole family. With flexible hours Monday through Friday, this library caters to the community. Also, check out their website for classes or volunteer as a family to make a difference in the community.

H-E-B Center at Cedar Park 2100 Avenue of the Stars Cedar Park, 78613; 512-600-5000 www.ticketmaster.com/venue/475948 The H-E-B Center has a variety of entertainment options for families across Williamson County. From Christian concerts, to Disney on Ice, to oldies music, there are plenty of options for the family.

Check out their website for a schedule of events. Tickets are available via Ticketmaster.

Inner Space Cavern 4200 South I-35, Georgetown, 78626 512-931-2283; www.myinnerspacecavern.com Beat the Texas heat and cool off at Inner Space Cavern in Georgetown.

Tours are offered daily on a first-come, first-served basis. All ages are welcome, and comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Check their website for a daily calendar of events.

Round Rock Express 3400 East Palm Valley Blvd.

Round Rock, 78665; 512-255-2255 www.roundrockexpress.com Williamson County is home to the Round Rock Express, the state's premier minor league baseball team. Games are held at Dell Diamond, where there is great food and the perfect seat for baseball viewing.

See their website for tickets, game schedule, and a variety of other options and events.

Arts & Culture

With museums, music, dance, theatre and cultural center options to choose from, there is something for everyone both young and old. Williamson County has a rich history that is featured in local museums, art studios, and cultural centers. There are many annual events that showcase the rich heritage of the people of this area. While visiting or traveling to this area, experience the local arts, which creates the fabric of the South.

Williamson County does a tremendous job of featuring a rich local culture while keeping in touch with Texas tradition.

Cedar Park Dance Company 200 Buttercup Creek Blvd., Suite 104 Cedar Park, 78613; 512-257-9722 www.cedarparkdance.com At Cedar Park Dance Company, their goal is to help others love dance. While attending their company, dancers will be able to gain

confidence, and are provided with positive comments to make their dancing skills even better. Ultimately, if joy is instilled with each student dancing, then Cedar Park Dance Company has done their job.

From splash parks to libraries to catching a ballgame at the Dell Diamond, there is never a lack of family activities in Williamon County.

Georgetown Art Center 816 S. Main St., Georgetown 512-930-2583; www.georgetownartcentertx.org The Georgetown Art Center has a wonderful environment with classes, events, and workshops for everyone.

They want the community of Williamson County and beyond to appreciate and view art in a positive light. At their center, people are able to purchase limited-edition art, which they can take home the day of their purchase.

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Georgetown Symphony Society P.O. Box 2476, Georgetown, 78627 512-864-9591; www.gsstx.org The Georgetown Symphony Society has been performing in Williamson County for over 15 years. They have been able to play with very distinguished instrumentalists from all over Texas. Also, the Georgetown Symphony has created a youth symphony called Vivace, who also share their talents around the community.

Greater Austin Dance Academy 2641 Forest Creek Dr., Round Rock, 78665; 512-828-4232 www.greateraustindance.com At Greater Austin Dance Academy, there are classes ranging from the ages of 2 all the way up to 18 years of age. Also, with summer camps and class options, there are many choices when deciding what to dance to. At their academy, they want people to not only dance with their feet, but to dance with their soul.

Moody House Museum 114 West 9th Street, Taylor, 76574 512-352-3675; www.ci.taylor.tx.us/220/ Moody-Museum The Moody Museum was the home of Dan Moody, who was the youngest to

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ever govern in the state of Texas. There are tours from 2 to 5 p.m. every Friday and Sunday. One of the best things about living in Texas is being able to walk through historical homes and experience the preservation of history.

Moody's home is restored to what it looked like originally when he was growing up, making it feel like step back into history.

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Palm House Museum 212 E. Main, Round Rock, 78664 512-259-3354; www.williamson-countyhistorical-commission.org

Round Rock Arts P.O. Box 5981, Round Rock, 78683 512-218-7099; www.roundrockarts.org

The Palm House Museum takes visitors on an authentic trip back in time with both original and historically restored features. The original owner, Andrew J. Palm, bought the 112 acres for $366.66 back in 1873. The house has two rooms, a hall, and a gallery up front. The original pine and cypress structure still remains after almost 150 years.

The Round Rock Area Arts Council’s goal is to “enhance arts and cultural activities.” This arts council has been active for almost 10 years in the Texas community, and has wonderful events like the Fish Fry in June or the Chalk Walk in the month of October. With groups from the local theater, symphonies, and choir performing with Round Rock Arts, there is plenty to choose from.

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» LEISURE AND RECREATION Round Rock Symphony Orchestra P.O. Box 2308, Round Rock, 78680 512-264-5368; www.roundrocksymphony.org

camps to improve theatrical development across the county. Also, there are opportunities for people to donate to the SMCT to further their services to the community.

As the largest organization of the arts in Williamson County, Round Rock Symphony Orchestra (RRS) serving the community with innovative programming, far-reaching educational initiatives, and distinctive entertainment, the RRS continues to bring a diverse offering to our neighbors.

Texas Museum of Science and Technology 1220 Toro Grande Blvd., Cedar Park, 78613 512-961-5333; www.txmost.org

Sam Bass Community Theatre 600 N. Lee Street in Memorial Park Round Rock, 78664; 512-244-0440 www.sambasstheatre.org The Sam Bass Community Theatre (SMCT) was created in 1983 to further the arts in Williamson County. Not only does SMCT have events for the community to watch, but they also want the community to be involved, too. They offer summer

Residents don't need head to Austin when they need an art fix. With high-end museums, symphonies, community theaters and dance companies, Williamson County's cultural scene is top-notch.

The mission at the Texas Museum of Science and Technology is to help the community of Williamson County deepen their imagination with things in our world today. They hope that people who walk in their doors will be able to discover new things they never knew before. The staff at this museum continues to further the development of the STEM program across the state of Texas.

The Dance Spot 900 Round Rock Avenue, Suite 220 Round Rock, 78681 512-244-3363; www.dancespotx.com This dance company was created by Quinton Weathers in 2006. He not only wanted his dancers to become better, but for them also to develop as better people. The Dance Spot creates a positive environment where their students will thrive, be challenged, and be recognized for their various endeavors. They have over 10 dance programs to try.

The Dance Works 16333 Great Oaks Drive, Suite 120 L Round Rock, 78681 512-248-8323; www.thedanceworks.com The Dance Works loves to see their students’ self-esteem build during their time dancing. They create an environment for people who like to dance for fun and others who like to be competitive. In 1998, The Dance Works opened to House Two Studios. Williamson County is better off with a dance studio like this one in Round Rock.

The Georgetown Palace Theatre 810 S. Austin Ave., Georgetown, 78626 512-869-7469; www.georgetownpalace.com

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The Georgetown Palace Theatre is a non-profit that provides high-quality theatre to the people of Williamson County. With their professional performances, local amateurs can compete and try-out for a variety of plays, musicals, etc. They believe that their services are well-received, bringing in people from outside the state to witness the beauty of theatre.

The Williamson Museum 716 S. Austin Ave., Georgetown, 78626 512-943-1670; www.williamsonmuseum.org The Williamson Museum prides itself on showing its community’s heritage. At the museum, there are wonderful ways to connect with the past in the great state of Texas. This museum encourages visitors of all ages to come and learn about the rich and beautiful history and landscape that makes it the heart of Texas.

Way Off Broadway Community Players 11880 West FM 2243, Leander, 78646 512-259-5878; www.wobcp.org Way Off Broadway has been in Williamson County for 20 years. They have a wonderful season of plays and events for the public to attend. Also, the community can either try-out for a play or they can volunteer their services to better the experience at Way Off Broadway.

Consider growing with this broadway theatre, as they continue to perform for Williamson County.

WILCO Symphony 1007 Green Meadow, Round Rock, 78664 512-789-5073; www.wilcosymphony.org The Williamson County Symphony performs free concerts around the state, which are open to all people. In the last year, WILCO has performed in North Austin, Round Rock, Fort Hood, Cedar Park, and Georgetown. They play a wide range of music from movie themes, Christmas music, and humor melodies. See if they are visiting a town near you.

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Red Poppy Festival April 27-29, 2018 • Georgetown Expect a family-friendly setting which includes food, crafts, live music, and entertainment. Come enjoy all the fun and excitement.

EVENTS

annually to downtown Round Rock. The thousands in attendance come to enjoy chalk artists creating artwork on the streets surrounded by musicians, vocal groups, theatrical performances, food and drinks, and children’s performances by local organizations and schools.

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2 Old Town Street Festival May • Leander The streets of Old Town Leander fill with local and national artisans offering handcrafted creations during this popular festival. Texas Bands and artists bring the stage to life, and family-friendly activities delight both adults and children.

Hutto Olde Tyme Days Festival October • Hutto Hutto Old Tyme Days is a family-friendly, two-day festival. With 100 arts and crafts booths as well as food vendors and access to ice cold beer, this festival will please creatives and food lovers alike.

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to a few thousand people on Independence Day. With watermelon, fireworks, live music, and sky divers, this event is unlike any other.

6 Concerts in the Park May • Cedar Park Spend some time in Cedar Park for a free concert every month. Bring your blanket, lawn chair and enjoy an evening of live music. Food concessions are available, but feel free to bring your own ice chest and picnic!

7 Music on the Square Summer Concerts Friday Nights from June-August • Georgetown Grab a blanket or a chair and enjoy some music on The Most Beautiful Town Square in Texas, for free!

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Round Rock Chalk Walk October • Round Rock Chalk Walk and Festival draws over 35,000 people

Taylor Blackland Prairie Days May • Taylor Taylor’s Blackland Prairie Days is a day of live music, barbecue, kids activities, arts & crafts, and more!

For a full list of area festivals and events, visit wclife.org/ calendar

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July 4th Frontier Days

Every 4th of July • Round Rock

Round Rock puts on a celebration in Old Settlers Park. The Austin Symphonic Band performs

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Family Campout Last Friday and Saturday in September • Round Rock, Old Settler’s Park Pop a tent in scenic Old Settler’s Park and spend the evening playing games, sitting around the campfire, watching a movie in the park and then off to sleep under the stars.

Registration required at RoundRockRecreation.com

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Reds, White, & Brews April 7, 2018 • Hutto Gather your friends for a fun night in Hutto at the annual Reds, Whites, & Brews event. The evening includes tastings from Texas wineries and Texas breweries, as well as amazing food from local restaurants. Live entertainment will help set the fun and festive mood.

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SPORTS AND OUTDOOR FUN

Sports can bring a community together, and that is the case when it comes to Williamson County and its surrounding areas. This area of Texas does not necessarily have major sports leagues like some of the big cities, but there is still a variety of options when it comes to minor league teams.

In and around Williamson County, there are a plethora of teams that fuel into the big leagues across the country. On top of that, many players come through the ranks right in the heart of Texas, as they make their mark.

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LEISURE AND RECREATION Spectator Sports

Some athletics that are most prevalent include sports at the University of Texas.

The college puts out great sports teams year after year, to the delight of their patrons. Also, there are minor league teams like the Texas Stars, the Austin Toros and the Round Rock Express.

Cycling is also big in Central Texas! Come out and watch LIVESTRONG’s annual Ride for the Roses. Lance Armstrong hosts a cycling and a running marathon for the area. Thousands of people come out to participate in support of the foundation and all its services to the community.

Lastly, there is some wonderful high school football in and around Williamson County.

Consider coming out to a sporting event this year.

Austin Toros - In 2005, this minor league basketball team was created as a developmental league for the San Antonio Spurs. From November to April, this team plays 23 home games a season.

They originally played in the Austin Convention Center, but they have now moved to Cedar Park, with a venue that holds over 4,500 people.

Austin Yacht Club - During the year, the Austin Yacht Club, which was founded in 1952, puts on sailboat racing regattas for Williamson County to enjoy. There are event classes for children and adults to take part in, if they are interested, during the summer.

LIVESTRONG Austin Marathon / Ride for the Roses - During the year, the city of Austin puts on a variety of cycling and running events for the public to take part in or just enjoy. Run by the LIVESTRONG Foundation, annual 5K, 10K, a half marathon, a full marathon, and other relays take place, as people from around the world compete.

Round Rock Express - This minor league baseball team, set in Williamson County, is operated by Nolan Ryan, Hall of Fame pitcher, and Michael Dell, technology

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guru. Since their inception in 1999, they have fueled players into the major leagues. Previously, they were owned by the Houston Astros, but are now under authority of the Texas Rangers.

Come check out their state-of-the-art facilities and great athletes. With sports in the fall, winter, and spring, the University of Texas keeps its fans on the edge of their seats year-round.

Star of Texas Fair & Rodeo – Each year you can spend two weeks at this amazing fair and rodeo. Thousands of people come out to see the best roping and riding in the country. Also, there are wonderful music performers like Merle Haggard, Willie Nelson, and Brooks & Dunn. Top it off with some great food, and everyone will be in hog heaven.

Take it Outside

Texas Stars – Hockey has found a home in Texas! The Texas Stars, part of the American Hockey League, are affiliated with the Dallas Stars and play hockey at a $55 million venue in Cedar Park. The venue holds over 7,000 people with a schedule of 40 games a year for the home fans from October to April.

University of Texas Athletics - The athletics at the University of Texas are some of the best in the nation. The Longhorns offer sporting events in basketball, baseball, football and softball.

Berry Springs Park and Preserve 1801 CR 152, Georgetown, 78626 www.parks.wilco.org In 2010, this park was voted as “The Best Kept Secret.” With a 2.5-mile trail, many people love to get out for a walk or picnic.

Brushy Creek Regional Trail www.wilco.org This trail starts at Twin Lakes Park and continues for almost 7 miles. A 5th phase is even being considered to make this trail even better.

Champion Park 3830 Brushy Creek Rd., Cedar Park, 78613 www.parks.wilco.org With a covered children’s play place,with castings of dinosaur bones to discover, a large blue whale that spurts water to cool WWW.WC L I F E. O R G

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» LEISURE AND RECREATION kids off, and specially designed boulders for climbing, Champion Park is a favorite for families.

Lake Creek Trail www.parks.wilco.org The trail runs for a mile and a half next to Lake Creek. It connects Parmer Lane and Broadmeade Avenue and goes through the Town and Country

neighborhood and school. The primarily concrete trail is great for pedestrians with 20 parking spots available at the trailhead.

Lake Georgetown www.tpwd.texas.gov There are three boat ramps at this lake, as well as shoreline areas for beach time and fishing. Also, the lake is surrounded by a hiking trail that measures longer than a marathon.

Leander/NW Austin KOA 2689 Hero Way, Leander, 78641 512-259-7200; www.koa.com This campground offers great amenities and services to its customers. Also, sensational staff helps to make your experience a great one.

New Life RV Park 1200 CR 152, Georgetown, 78626 512-931-2073; www.newlifervpark.com This RV park has a great staff who will do anything for its customers. Daily rates start at $39, and a weekly rate is only $175.

Old Settlers Park 3300 E Palm Valley Blvd., Round Rock, 78665: (512) 218-5540 www.roundrocktexas.gov

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Rio Bonito Cabin Resort and RV Park 1095 CR 256, Liberty Hill, 78642 512-922-1383; www.rbcabinresort.com This RV Park also has cute cabins for rent that are clean and inviting. Check out their website to find more on this familyfriendly camping area.

San Gabriel River RV Camp Resort 40005 Heritage Hollow Georgetown, 78626; 512-868-1401; www.parks.georgetown.org At this campground, consider taking lovely walks along the river. Take a picnic lunch, and you will have experienced something great.

Southwest Williamson County Regional Park 3005 CR 175, Leander, 78641 www.parks.wilco.org/Departments/ParksRecreation/County-Parks/SouthwestWilliamson-County-Regional-Park This park has amazing space for activities. With softball fields, soccer fields, a football field, track lanes, tennis courts, basketball courts and a play structure for kids, there is something for everyone. In the summer, people can come out and pay a few dollars to get wet at the Quarry Splash Pad. Twin Lakes Park 2300 S Bell Blvd., Cedar Park, 78613 www.parks.wilco.org/Departments/ Parks-Recreation/County-Parks/ Twin-Lakes-Park

Between the many beautiful camping spots and area lakes, there is plenty of outdoor fun to be had in Williamson County.

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Round Rock’s Old Settlers Park is the City’s crown jewel of the park system and is a well-known sports destination in the youth and amateur sports leagues

Williamson County owns this park that is a total of 50 acres. Come out to play some volleyball on their sand courts or participate in a ropes course. |

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WILLIAMSON COUNTY is GOLF COUNTRY From the moment you step onto a fairway on any of the lavish golf courses in Williamson County, you experience the natural beauty and interweaving design only found in the Hill Country. The Southern topography is aglow with magnificent trees and wildflowers that grow freely. They are the Hill Country’s own distinguished perfume. Golf courses in this slice of heaven – the Texas Hill Country – can challenge the best golfers and accommodate the newest ones ready to take their shot.

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» LEISURE AND RECREATION Memories await you at any of the championship golf courses in this peaceful atmosphere and natural paradise setting. The rolling fairways and ambiance you will experience on these posh, green-velvet courses is exhilarating, even with those perilous bunkers dotting the landscape. Making your way to the first tee, you almost hear the wind whispering the names of golf power-players like Jordan Spieth. Lexie Thompson. Who knows? Maybe one day, your name will be mentioned in the golf annals as well. But now, in the present, it’s just you and the green-carpeted fairway. And your clubs. From the tee, you frame the scenic corridor of the fairway that’s lined with swaying majestic oak trees. They stand like sentinels over the course, watching and hoping your slice doesn’t chip away at any of their bark. You nod to them and silently send a message promising their safety; you are hoping for a stroke of genius.

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Berry Creek Country Club The gently rustling Berry Creek winds its way through the community that bears its name. The sprawling course layout is one that can intensify your love of the game.

Water makes an appearance in some form or fashion on ten of the holes at Berry Creek Country Club, including a shimmering lake.

Brave golfers who are up to the challenge aren’t intimidated when they are forced to negotiate those trees that stand like fortresses. Some of the state’s premier holes are among the 18 here. The allure of the scenery is calming to the senses.

Jagged limestone cliffs provide a stunning backdrop to the winding, wooded layout.

Some of the fairways are rather tight, so polish up your irons and hope for accuracy.

Other fairways are more generous and are embellished with a bounty of plant life.

The club is located at 30500 Berry Creek Dr., Georgetown, TX 78628. For more information, please call (512) 930-4615 or visit www.berrycreekcc.com Cimarron Hills Golf Club Golf is king in Cimarron Hills. This 7,302-yard Jack Nicklaus signature golf course is a place where hillside meadows and menacing bunkers coexist. This Georgetown terrain was once ranch land, but was later transformed into the exquisite Cimarron Hills Golf Club. The goal of the developers was to preserve its splendor while carving out challenging fairways. Its grand opening was a New Year’s gift to many – January 1, 2003.

Bentgrass greens should hopefully make your putts much easier. The greens aren’t always congenial; they slope in various directions and are tiered.

Nicklaus once reportedly said, “Never try to force an idea onto a piece of land.” This philosophy was foundational in designing this particular course, which ebbs and flows across the rolling terrain. Playing on this extraordinary golf course is a wonderful, engaging experience. But living in Cimarron Hills is an enchanting experience as well.

For many, the two are inseparable.

The par 72 Cimarron Hills Golf Club is a crowning achievement when it comes to an aristocratic country club. Here, players may enjoy a scrumptious meal before or after the game. An onsite pro shop is stocked with just about anything you may need.

The course is located at 200 E Cimarron Hills Trail, Georgetown, TX 78628. For more information, please call (512) 763-8700 or visit www.cimarronhills.com/golf-course/.

Crystal Falls Nestled in the picturesque Hill Country, Crystal Falls Golf Club in Leander invites its players to drink in its grandeur.

Owned by the city of Leander, this golf course opened in 1990. While players come and go, wildlife, like Bambi, get to stay. And they are honored to have you stop by and enjoy their world.

Mother Nature has graced this slice of heaven with its breathtaking view of limestone cliffs, gently sloping terrain and fragrant multicolored wildflowers.

As golfers traverse the 6,654 yards on this awe-inspiring 72 par course, they may not mind all the hazards, trees and water. Actually, water comes into play on 12 fairways and greens at Crystal Falls.

The “Falls” behind the ninth green are stunning, as water gushes over rocks and spills into a serene stream before rambling down the hill. The water offers a soothing refrain as it strikes the rocks, and sometimes you will hear birds chiming in with their own melodic chorus. On hot summer days, the accompanying mist can provide a short burst of refreshment. Also, when golfers start to sizzle, they often seek relief under nature’s provision of umbrellas, also known as oak trees.

Thanks to the developers, the fairways have many dramatic contoured elevation changes as they meander around an abundance of creeks, lakes and ponds.

The greens also have their own terraces and slopes which can either energize you, or fire up a hearty production of adrenaline. The design of the fairways

Golf courses in this slice of heaven – the Texas Hill Country – can challenge the best golfers and accommodate the newest ones ready to take their shot. offers uphill and downhill shots. Due to the slopes and tight fairways, course management is always imperative. Club selection is also critical in playing this demanding course, especially on the 11th hole. The 192-yard par 3 offers a picturesque view and a 200-yard drop onto the contoured green.

Seniors 60+ and students under 17 years of age will receive a discounted rate.

The club is located at 3400 Crystal Falls, Leander, TX 78646. For more information please call (512) 259-5855 or visit www.crystalfallsgolf.com.

Georgetown Country Club The idyllic location of the Georgetown Country Club is steeped in tradition; it dates to 1924. Back then, it was a 9-hole course. The latter nine were added in the 1970s and updated irrigation was

incorporated as well. The original nine is considered to be more basic and leverages the natural terrain; the man-made traps and hazards were not part of its original framework. Things changed four decades ago. The 70-par course ebbs and flows through the San Gabriel River Valley.

Designers ensured that water is now interwoven through 11 fairways and greens.

The course is a modest 5,400 yards, but the mesmerizing beauty compensates for its lack of yardage. The setting is doused with the charm of yesteryear. When the clouds seem attached to the blue dome above, it can be tranquilizing. And when the sun casts a shadow on one of the grand oak trees, and its reflection dances on a lake, you may need to be reminded that’s it’s your turn.

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» LEISURE AND RECREATION 18 fairways and greens weave through the landscape scattered with majestic old oaks, pecan and cottonwood trees.

Georgetown Country Club is a blend of unparalleled beauty where wildlife saturates the land and crimson paints the horizon. It’s hallowed ground here in the Texas Hill Country. Difficult challenges await even the best golfer, but the result is that your skills will be enhanced.

trying to chip the ball out of the sand.

Most greens are enormous, sloped and have a host of unique shapes. Huge, multifingered bunkers and various mounds guard all but one of the greens.

Like Crystal Falls, Star Ranch Golf Club also offers a dazzling waterfall on its 15th hole.

Star Ranch Golf Club

Decades earlier, the 71-par course was a cattle ranch. When developers descended upon these gently rolling hills, they carved out some rippling fairways on top of a hill. They also chiseled out some earth to install bunkers and a few ponds.

Since they wanted guests to enjoy the beauty of the Hill Country while having an ultimate golfing experience, architects elected to build Star Ranch Golf Club close to a lake. The result is a splendid oasis of beauty and endless vistas. Star Ranch offers discounts for students and seniors 60+.

At 7,017 yards, Star Ranch Golf Club in Hutto is a golfer-friendly course, but players will need to negotiate a few sweeping doglegs or risk spending time

The club is located at 2500 FM 685, Hutto, TX 78634. For more information please call (512) 252-4653 or visit www. starranchgolf.com.

Georgetown Country Club is a private, member-owned club with deep roots of southern hospitality. It has been billed as a true shot-maker’s course. And with the numerous elevation shifts and natural and man-made hazards, it lives up to its nickname.

The club is located at 1500 Country Club Rd., Georgetown, TX 78628. For more information, please call (512) 930-4577 or visit www.georgetowncountryclub.net.

ROUND ROCK

LEANDER HUTTO

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Sun City Texas Not one, but three golf courses are within the boundaries of this one community in Georgetown: Cowan Creek, White Wing and Legacy Hills. These three masterfully designed courses encompass more than 300 acres of premium Hill Country real estate in Del Webb’s Sun City Texas. Each one has its own distinctive elements and composition, so if you wish to enjoy three varieties, you won’t need to travel far. And these were designed in such a way as to encapsulate the terrain’s unique natural topographical features. While it’s tough enough for seasoned players – some greens are well-guarded by water and sand – beginners or those of any skill levels are also able to enjoy the layouts.

Cowan Creek Golf Course: The 7,050 yard Cowan Creek Golf Course in Georgetown opened in 2008 and was designed by Gary Stephenson. The front nine are situated in a retirement community, but the homes are safely off in the distance. The back nine were designed to float across the land so golfers could drink in the view of the striking Hill

YARDAGE YARDAGE YARDAGE FROM BLUES FROM WHITES FROM REDS

PHONE NUMBER

WEBSITE

PAR

Twin Creeks Country Club

(512) 331-5900

www.twincreeksclub.com

72

6679

6167

4921

Berry Creek Country Club

(512) 930-4615

www.berrycreekcc.com

72

6104

5469

5017

Cimarron Hills

(512) 763-8700

www.cimarronhills.com

72

7302

6429

5059

Legacy Hills Golf Club

(512) 948-7560

www.legacyhills.sctxca.org/course.html

72

6079

5436

3936

White Wing Golf Club

(512) 948-7560

www.whitewing.sctxca.org/course.html

72

6307

5781

5186

Golf Club at Star Ranch

(512) 252-4653

www.starranchgolf.com

71

6341

5678

4990

Crystal Falls Golf Course

(512) 259-5855

www.crystalfallsgolf.com

72

6654

6164

5194

Avery Ranch Golf Club

(512) 248-2442

www.averyranchgolf.com

72

6229

5724

4921

Forest Creek Golf Club

(512) 388-2874

www.forestcreek.com

72

6742

6041

5006

Teravista Golf Club

(512) 651-9850

www.teravistagolf.com

72

6637

6250

5099

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Country that almost seems like a mural.

Cacti and mesquite add a unique rustic twist to the scenery. While the fairways do have a wide assortment of hazards – including a few elevated, terraced greens - they are still a place where beginners can enjoy the challenge.

Legacy Hills Golf Club: The alluring Legacy Hills Golf Club opened in 1996. One year later, it captured sixth place in the Dallas Morning News’ Top 10 New Courses list.

This Billy Casper Signature Course encompasses 120 acres of beautiful rolling hills, where centuries-old oak trees gracefully adorn the landscape, and where wildflowers flourish. Since the fairways and greens are centered among ravines and looming bunkers, golfing here demands your complete attention. For a moment, you must try to ignore the spectacular scenery as you line up for a straight shot.

The ninth hole, which is par-4, is said to rival the 18th. The 357-yardlong fairway is uphill, and there’s a two-tiered green for an extra layer of difficulty. There’s a menacing stream on the left, and you may be daunted by even more bunkers on the right.

Incidentally, both are excellent ball catchers. And both are daring you to shoot straight on your approach.

The 18th hole is heralded as one of the best finishing holes in the Texas Hill Country. A plethora of bunkers are sprinkled along this par-5, uphill fairway that doglegs to the left.

The architects behind the design were Greg Cash and Billy Casper. So, a tip of the hat to those who split the fairways, added creeks and dug out deep, grassy bunkers for your golfing pleasure.

White Wing Golf Club: Opened in 2001, the White Wing Golf Club has a bountiful splash of creeks, ponds and stately oak trees. While beautiful, they are still hazards and should cause a golfer to think twice about a club selection. Many plans for a birdie

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have been thwarted by the strategic placement of these ball-hungry bunkers.

Keeping your eye on the prize will get you to the promised land of the gently contoured greens. Many golfers spend their fair share of time searching for a wayward ball among those trees. A host of indigenous wildlife call that part of the course their habitat.

White Wing can’t compete with Legacy Hills Golf Club in yardage, but it is clearly narrower. It will take all your focus to stay on the straight and narrow if you are in the mood for a birdie. Billy Casper also designed this course which has a reputation for intimidating par 5s, especially on the 18th signature hole. It’s one of those split fairways, but what’s a good game without some risk-reward opportunities? Yet the 4th hole, a par 4, is notably the most difficult one at White Wing. If you can maintain an easy attitude and maneuver your accurate tee shot between the bunkers on the fairway, you may be able to do a victory dance on the multilevel green, providing the fickle wind is your friend.

The club is located at 151 Dove Hollow Trail, Georgetown, TX 78633. For more information on this par-72 course please call (512) 948-7570 or visit whitewing. sctxca.org/course.html

Teravista Golf Club The 7,200-yard layout of the Teravista Golf Club is a perennial favorite of amateurs and pros alike. To appease players of all skill levels and ages, five different sets of tees are available.

Teravista recently announced a new membership program – The Players Club.

The vision of this program is to allow members to practice their swings and putting, while playing according to their own schedules. Free practice at any time is one of the enticing offers. Another is the opportunity to attend weekly clinics that will help you enhance your game. Private lessons are also available at Teravista for a separate fee.

There are nearly 70 bunkers sprinkled across this 72-par course to test your accuracy and tenacity. And developers strategically placed water hazards around and along 14 of the greens. To spice things up, hole 17 has a kidney-shaped green which is punctuated by three bunkers.

Teravista is proud to state that the National Golf Course Owners Association has christened it as a “Beginner-Friendly Course.”

The club is located at 4332 Teravista Club Drive, Round Rock, TX 78665. For more information please call (512) 651-9850 or visit www.teravistagolf.com.

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SHOPPING & DINING Residents of Williamson County have a love affair with food, and there’s no better proof than the thriving restaurant scene you’ll find here. Look around, and you’ll find something for every taste and wallet – from mom and pop eateries to classic cuisine dining. The culinary side of Williamson County is waiting for you.

All that eating requires walking it off, and shopping is a great way to burn off those calories! Whether your taste is in antiques, luxury items, funky vintage, trendy or everyday needs, you can build up a healthy appetite running from one store to the next. Enjoy!

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SHOP 'TILL YOU DROP While consumer shopping behaviors have shifted dramatically in the past decade to e-commerce, many malls are alive and well and can still lure shoppers. It may be faster to order online, but a day of shopping with family and friends is still a mainstay in America. The shopping malls in Williamson County have invested heavily to make themselves more appealing by offering a unique shopping experience for the entire family. Mall management is diligently staying in touch with the consumer by accommodating them with the traditional anchor stores. They are adding retail specialty shops and a collection of boutiques. Several fine malls serve the communities of Georgetown, Round Rock, Liberty Hill, Hutto, Leander, Cedar Park and Taylor.

vintage jewelry, fine furniture, Victorian glass, sterling silver plates, Civil War currency, lamps and more.

Malls serving the residents of Williamson County reflect the nature of the area and are architecturally designed to create a sense of community. They have their own distinctive flavor, yet most offer a blend of designer value, as well as the traditional retail experience. You’ll enjoy premier stores, a mix of restaurant choices and everyday amenities.

Round Rock Premium Outlet has 125 stores and is located off I-35 in Round Rock. This family-friendly open-air mall features an exciting collection of stores including Polo Ralph Lauren, Nike, Michael Kors, JCrew and more. Many are specialty stores for women's fashion, family and fine jewelry, wtih 25-65 percent off regular everyday prices. You can spend hours strolling, browsing or shopping some of the finest designers and name brand items. Storefront parking is offered for your convenience.

One such mall is the 750,000 square feet Wolf Ranch Town Center in Georgetown.

Its location off I-35 and University Avenue also makes it convenient to residents in Round Rock.

The sprawling, open-air lifestyle community center features well-known retailers including Target, Best Buy, Kohl's, Pier1 Imports, Starbucks, PetSmart, Old Navy, Michaels, Kay Jewelers and many more.

And to keep up with the digital world, Wolf Ranch Town Center offers charging stations for phones. Whether you’re searching for something for your youngsters or need to update your wardrobe, you are sure to find it at this shopping destination.

Outside the mall, you can stroll along the landscaped pathways and enjoy the beautiful ponds. The mall’s vast selection of shopping venues is the perfect shopping location for residents or those visiting the community.

Perhaps you are on a quest to spend a day in an antique lover’s paradise. The Georgetown Square offers a bounty of irresistible treasures of yesteryear. Collections includes

Lakeline Mall in Cedar Park is a property managed by top U.S. mall owner Simon Property Group, whose philosophy is to create enticing shopping environments. It’s conveniently located near Highway 183 at Lakeline Mall Drive and serves residents of Cedar Park and Round Rock as well as other communities in the vicinity. The mall features more than 150 stores and includes everything from apparel, health and beauty and even the Build-A-Bear Workshop and the Disney Store. Visitors can find several dining options and even take in a movie at Regal Cinemas.

After working up an appetite shopping, you may want to sit down and relax at Chili’s or La Madeleine. Once all the items on your shopping list are checked off, you can enjoy a movie at Cinemark 14.

Besides malls, a vast array of major retail shopping hubs are sprinkled across the region as Central Texas continues to experience rapid growth.

North of Lakeline Mall is the Gateway Shopping Center in Leander. This 300,000-square-foot retail development boasts anchors Lowe’s and Kohl's.

Twenty years ago, in 1997, an entrepreneur purchased acreage across from the Cedar Park post office to develop what’s known today as The Railyard Shopping Center.

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» SHOPPING AND DINING native landscaping as a natural backdrop for his seven buildings. Along the tree-lined plaza are restaurants, mom and pop retailers, a gymnastic center and dance studio. Restaurants, medical, retail, dance studios, gymnastics, and numerous other successful businesses call The Railyard home.

Sky Ridge Plaza occupies 1,000 feet of premium highway-front real estate, which provides customers with ease of access and high visibility. It features a rich tenant mix including restaurants, retailers, and business/consumer services companies and medical offices. Generous parking and eye-catching landscaping surround the facility.

WILLIAMSON COUNTY'S POPULAR FOOD SCENE The ongoing population explosion in Williamson County presents great opportunities for entrepreneurs who want to seize a large slice of the pie – the restaurant revenue pie, that is. And this is music to the ears of residents of Williamson County.

These new kids on the block are competing with national chains to win your loyalty and patronage.

As restaurants continue to pop up in their communities, residents and visitors are presented with an array of diverse dining options. With so many eateries to choose from, there’s no longer a need to join in the congested parade of vehicles on I-35 to Austin in search of great food and a pleasant atmosphere. Since they are only

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a stone's throw away, why make the drive when you don’t need to? And if you wish to celebrate a special occasion that requires hiring a sitter, you can shave one hour off of the time clock.

Residents in the communities of Williamson Country come from a diverse background. If you are craving chicken fried steak, pizza and burgers, you are in luck. Even if you are on a disciplined quest to maintain a healthy lifestyle and diet, nearly all of these restaurants offer fresh vegetable plates or an entrée salad. And if your appetite is for anything from sushi to a savory homestyle prepared meal, we’ve got you covered; you are only a short jaunt away from a feast that will satisfy your taste buds and quench your thirst. Want a place to connect with friends after work?

There are plenty of watering holes in the valley where you can enjoy a cocktail, glass of wine, margarita, or an ice-cold beer.

Each of the restaurants have invested time not only in perfecting their menus, but they are also committed to ensuring that the memorabilia and decorations reflect their fare. Appearances, ambiance, and atmosphere are just as important to creating a memorable dining experience as anything at the bar or in the kitchen. Eating barbecue from a wooden table and sitting on a solid wood chair is part of the charm.

Rare and Well Done in Cedar Park

In Cedar Park you have a wide variety of restaurant options nearby that provide a dynamic combination of genuine value and delicious food. As much as you may enjoy fajitas or barbecue, there are times you may have an appetite for something international. We can save you the expense of an airline ticket by recommending you visit local restaurants that have managed to capture the essence of savory meals that originated in foreign lands.

Saving a Tex-Mex Seat for You This is another entrepreneurial success story that will make you want to give a tip of your sombrero to those at Dos Salsas Tex-Mex restaurant. In 1999, a

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17-year-old young man arrived in the Lone Star State all alone. Eager to earn his own way, he took a job in Austin at a popular restaurant as a dishwasher, busboy and cook. Over the years, he learned valuable tricks of the restaurant trade. His professionalism and skills eventually landed him the job as kitchen manager. There were still rungs on that ladder for him to climb – and he did. The young man was later promoted to quality control director and was responsible for more than 25 restaurants in Texas.

After acquiring so many essential skills, he left to launch out on his own. With the support of his loving family, he opened Dos Salsas, first in Georgetown and then in Cedar Park.

Stop by Monday through Friday for lunch and enjoy the amazing Dos Salsas flautas, crispy or soft tacos, tostadas, pork tamales, enchiladas and more. In the evenings, you can taste for yourself how the kitchen chefs have mastered taquitos, tortilla soup, stuffed jalapenos, Guacamole dip, or queso flameados – melted Monterey Jack cheese served flaming at your table. No need to worry if you are looking for something low carb on the menu. Their grilled chicken breasts or tilapia are just two items that can be low in carbs yet incredibly delicious.

FUN FACT No. 07 Sushi Heaven If you are still in the mood for Asian food, there’s the incredible Takara Sushi and Asian Bistro restaurant. For an appetizer, you can begin with their seven spice calamari or edamame. Or you can sample the master chef ’s specialty appetizers such as a Q-blossom – a thin slice of refreshing cucumber wrapped around crab kanikama and avocado in a lime-infused cream essence. Moving along to the main course you can select from freshwater eel, flying fish caviar, octopus, squid, Japanese sea urchin or albacore tuna. The specialty rolls include ingredients such as snow crab, seared scallop, panko-crusted soft shell crab, bluefin fatty tuna, avocado, cucumber, oven-baked eel and a host of others that must be tasted to be believed. And to quench your thirst, you can select from their 200 wines on hand.

Some of the best barbecue in Texas is located within Williamson County, including many top-notch barbecue joints located within Taylor, Texas - often proclaimed to have the best Barbecue in Texas.

The Best of Moonie’s The history of Moonie’s Burger House is one of those feel-good success stories about an entrepreneur who had a dream and worked diligently to make it happen. The establishment began as a single venue in 2007 with a goal of serving the best burgers in Cedar Park.

Once word got out about the juicy flavor in each bite, patrons began to come in droves. In the past decade, Moonie’s has emerged into a gourmet burger haven, and they now have three locations.

Hill Country News has presented Moonie’s Burger House with nine consecutive annual awards for the best burger. They have expanded their menu to include shakes and new sides. The philosophy is to encourage patrons to “dine in,” and they even offer coupons to that effect. The reasoning is because it gives patrons a warm sense of community. And if customers are at their tables, Moonie’s friendly wait staff can give them top-notch service. After some renovation, Moonie’s now offers outdoor seating, a kid’s play space complete with arcade games, as well as free table games.

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Georgetown Eateries

Monument Café Round up a group of friends and head over to the Monument Café for lunch, a roadside joint for lunch where you can saunter up to the counter and order a Texas-sized glass of cold iced tea. Or sample some of their freshly squeezed juices. No matter which homestyle item you choose from their menu, you can be guaranteed it will be made from scratch using fresh vegetables – never frozen. Many are organically grown.

Their eggs are hand-gathered straight from a farm, and their meats are all natural.

Their emphasis is serving their patrons flavorful and unprocessed food, which is why everything they serve is cooked in their own kitchen.

Their current structure was designed to resemble an early-twentieth-century small-town café. And in a casual atmosphere where the wait staff is friendly, they want

As restaurants continue to pop up in their communities, residents and visitors are presented with an array of diverse dining options. you to leave happy. Since their prices are so reasonable, that’s almost guaranteed.

Uptown Social Many people consider pizza to be its own special food group. And some believe it should be elevated to the top of the food pyramid. If you want to sample some stellar pizza loaded with everything from olives to oregano, then you should consider making a pilgrimage to Uptown Social. You can create your own New York-style thin crust pizza and load it with some of their many available toppings: meats, veggies, cheeses and their own specialty toppings. The Uptown Social chefs create their own unique dough and tomato sauce from scratch and bake their pizza pies in stone deck ovens.

This classy retreat is located on the top floor of Tamiro Plaza near downtown Georgetown Square. Some of the amenities you will enjoy are a full bar, live music, gluten free ingredients and outdoor seating.

And when you live in Texas, you can enjoy the view from the terrace most days of the year. The patio encompasses 4,000 square feet of space for you to mingle in, which also provides you with unbeatable 360-degree views of the Historic Courthouse Square and the rolling San Gabriel River.

If you prefer the indoors, the sweeping lounge area has eight flat-screen televisions and ample bar seating. Additionally, a private dining room is available for use for meetings or events.

Wildfire Restaurant Wildfire Restaurant in the heart of historic Georgetown raises the bar in fine dining.

They offer a taste of sophistication, impeccable service and tantalizing food. It’s so scrumptious that even Southern Living is impressed. They said, “Wildfire puts spice in dining.” And Time magazine states in an article that Wildfire grill is a reason to 116

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move to Georgetown. If you haven’t yet had a chance to treat your taste buds to some of Wildfire’s savory food, perhaps you should add it to your bucket list.

Even before the food meets your lips, you will find amusement in their creatively written menu. Seafood is categorized as “From the Waters.” And their wines, including top shelf, are listed under “End of the Trail.”

Lights, Camera, Action in Hutto

Once upon a time in the West – actually it was in the city of Hutto – Hollywood came calling. TV producers were looking for the perfect saloon-type scene for a recurring role in episodes of “From Dusk till Dawn” starring Don Johnson. Once they eyed The Texan Café, they stopped dead in their tracks. After all, if you are looking for an authentic yet inexpensive place to stage a production, then Hutto fits the bill.

Pies are supposed to be reserved for an after-dinner delight. But once you sink your teeth into a legendary slice of one of their masterpieces, you may decide to dine in reverse order. And who could blame you? There’s a chocolate covered cherry pie, lemon drop pie, Oreo cookie pie, S’more pie, turtle pie, chocolate fudge pie, German chocolate pie and a peppermint patty pie. The specialty? Brandy apple pie a la mode served on a cast iron skillet.

Drooling is appropriate.

Still working backward with the menu, you can select a juicy grilled breast of chicken smothered with sautéed mushrooms and shrimp. Or you may be in the mood for a smokehouse special of sausage and pork ribs and two sides. Then there’s the down-home delight of grilled pork chops. And since Hutto is fairly close to the Gulf of Mexico, you can be sure they have a large catch of catfish and shrimp on hand.

SHOPPING AND DINING Pass the BBQ Sauce in Leander

Farm to Fork The name of this restaurant tells you a great deal about their philosophy. The chefs acquire natural, locally grown organic and non-GMO produce from farmers after harvesting. They believe sustainable crops provide the best food for our health, and their patronage also keeps local farms flourishing. These natural ingredients are whipped up to provide patrons with a Texas southern homestyle cuisine with a dash of a French flare. Since some crops are only seasonal, their menu items are subject to change.

Some of the items on their menu include grilled Portobello mushroom panini, beef tenderloin sandwich, Reuben, a turkey BLT wrap and more. Farm to Fork is also proud to offer Central Texas brewed beer, such as Messina Hof.

Mouton Southern Bistro - Leander Louisiana may be known for its classic Cajun food, but Mouton’s Southern Bistro is breathing down their neck. For the past five years, they have been appealing to more and more customers with their friendly social atmosphere and menu items that sizzle with a hint of French Creole.

They prepare every item on their menu in their own kitchen. Many recipes have been handed down for the past few generations.

They are appreciative that their loyal customer base enjoys their culture of family, fellowship and great food.

Some of these items that rank high as crowd pleasers are their Cajun specialties: shrimp jambalaya, burgers and po-boys.

There’s also their smoked prime rib dinners, soups and salads, grits, pasta and chicken fried steak. To prove they are family-friendly, kids can eat free all day on Monday.

Smokey Mo’s BBQ No matter how you slice it, Smokey Mo’s BBQ is a cut above the rest. As a family owned and operated restaurant, they are dedicated to serving up lean brisket, tender chicken and flavorful sausage.

Those who have chosen Smokey Mo’s as a dining destination say it’s a rich blend of generous plates of tasty food and a familyfriendly, casual atmosphere.

Smokey Mo’s serves the early crowd heaping breakfast tacos and wraps along with piping-hot coffee or fresh juice. Then there’s the lunch crowd. If you use your imagination, you can almost envision them riding up on their horses, saddling them to the hitching post then wiping their feet at the door. The menu items include large barbeque plates of brisket or pork ribs. If you are hosting a gathering at your own saloon, you can carry-out a meal by the pound. Or if you are short on time, a

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» SHOPPING AND DINING friendly Smokey Mo’s team member will gladly cater to those within the vicinity.

And if you desire a mile-high sandwich piled with luscious slices of sliced beef that’s dripping with barbeque sauce, the staff at Smokey Mo’s are at your service.

And don’t forget about their delicious baked potatoes or chopped bakers.

Pull up a Chair in Round Rock While Texas is a mecca for Mexican cuisine, other venues dot the landscape.

Regardless of which type of food you are craving, you are sure to find a delicious meal to satisfy your appetite.

Those who are infatuated with chips and chili con queso can select from Chuy's, Morelia's or Torchy's Tacos. The friendly wait staff will deliver generous platters of onion-sautéed sizzling fajitas to your table, with sides of guacamole and sour cream.

Steaming fresh flour tortillas are just

waiting to be filled with shredded cheese and some of the best beef and chicken and authentic pico de gallo in Texas.

Margaritas are a specialty in Tex-Mex establishments, or there are plenty of other beverages on hand, including freshly brewed iced tea. But every evening, it’s common to see happy, smiling patrons with a cold beer or a cocktail from their well-stocked bars.

Cover 3 Cover 3 is a quaint place known for three things: dining, spirits and sports. Austin already has two locations, and they’ve been so successful that management decided to invest in a venue in Round Rock.

Cover 3 caters to fans who want delicious food, a social atmosphere and enough space to cozy up to a bar for a cold drink.

Be advised, this is not your typical sports bar where food is almost an afterthought.

The appetizers are shareable bar bites such as calamari and batter fried shrimp and oysters. Top off your culinary experience with a slice of luscious Key lime pie or cheesecake. Patrons can sink into comfortable leather chairs and watch their favorite games on huge flat-screen TVs. Chandeliers overhead add an extra touch of class. Hospitality is the name of the game, and Cover 3’s got you covered!

Dining in Jack Allen’s Kitchen If you are in the mood for more refined, southwestern-inspired cuisine, you can’t go wrong at Jack Allen’s Kitchen. This restaurant redefines dining. Jack Gilmore, the owner and chef, and his team are culinary whizzes who can always whip up a flavorful plate for you, whether it’s a New York Strip Steak or a mouthwatering grilled ruby trout. They are personally involved in acquiring the best produce from local farms to ensure that only the best reaches your table.

Patron’s will have their thirsts quenched

by Jack’s exquisite blend of cocktails that are destined to complement your meal.

Hopefully you can manage to save room for one of their stunning desserts. Jack Allen’s Kitchen is the perfect setting to satisfy your cravings.

CUSTOM CAKES • PETIT FOURS • CAKE BALLS • PASTRIES

12233 Ranch Road 620 N. #114 Austin, TX 78750 (tel) 512-433-6860 (website) www.michellespatisserie.com

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Rockin’ Donuts and Cakes We would be remiss without presenting information for those with a sweet tooth.

Or two. Round Rock Donuts isn’t just a place that can delight your senses in the morning; they also prepare some of the most beautiful cakes in the Lone Star State. This bakery has changed hands many times since 1926. The current proprietors purchased it in 1978. They believe the secret sauce, so to speak, is in the yeast. While owners have transferred the deed on six occasions, the recipe remains the same. According to the owners, the donuts originate from a bread-like dough. And these yeast donuts are not machine made; the dough must be hand rolled, cut and fried. And then, those blissful toppings are added to the marvelously rich icing. Round Rock Donuts has the capacity to hand-produce 200 dozen of these heavenly donuts daily.

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GET READY TO MAKE THE

MOVE SETTLING IN TO WILLIAMSON COUNTY

The Williamson County Newcomer & Relocation Guide is designed to provide those new to the area with a wealth of information. And, as excited as you may be with your relocation decision, it is still a challenge to settle into any new community. In this article, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find relocation tips, based on more than thirty books and extensive personal experience, to smooth your adjustment into the Williamson County area.

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» SETTLING IN TO WILLIAMSON COUNTY Learn About the Area

You may find yourself lodged in a hotel or temporary housing until your belongings arrive, and that’s a nice opportunity to become familiar with the Williamson County area. The Williamson County Newcomer & Relocation Guide is the perfect place to start learning about what this wonderful area has to offer. You can also find additional information on our website www.wclife.org, along with hotels/ motels, the airport, and real estate offices (see the Helpful Websites sidebar).

A walking or bus tour, while fun for the whole family, actually serves to help you become acclimated and learn about the city. You can also visit local points of interest such as museums, parks and exhibits, enjoy a concert or try out restaurants featuring local cuisine. Check out any services, activities or organizations that are of particular interest to your family.

Spouse Career Considerations

One of the biggest challenges of moving is relocating a second career. If you, as

HELPFUL WEBSITES Advice for Volunteers

www.serviceleader.org

American Animal Hospital Association Hospital Locator

www.healthypet.com

American Medical Association

www.ama-assn.org

American School Directory

www.asd.com

Elder Care Locator

www.eldercare.gov

Indeed

www.indeed.com

National Association of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies

www.naccrra.org

Parents Without Partners, Inc.

www.parentswithoutpartners.org

Williamson County Government Offices

www.wilco.gov

WCLife

www.WCLife.og

a spouse, are transferring your job to a home office, then a computer, telephone, e-mail account and fax machine may be all that you will need to get started. However, if your job was not “portable,” you might consider a new career, part-time or

Getting together with people in your new neighborhood is a sure way to feel a part of the community.

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temporary employment, or perhaps even start your own business.

Evaluate your skills, accomplishments and greatest strengths when you are planning your next endeavor. A few resources to tap are your spouse’s employer, local organizations, real estate offices with “Partner Career Assistance Programs,” independent career counselors, your university/college alma mater and, of course, the Sunday edition of the local papers. If you are searching for a job, start networking by telling those you meet that you are looking.

If you have chosen to take a break from your career, consider volunteering your time and talent. Volunteering with a charitable organization is a wonderful effort as well as a way to meet new people and learn more about the community.

Volunteer activities add depth to résumés, but the experience needs to be documented so that the service equates to business expertise. Before you again become fully employed, use any free time to enjoy your new community. Refer to the Advice for Volunteers website for guidance in selecting a volunteer position and Indeed.com for spousal assistance in the Helpful Websites sidebar.

Successfully Relocating Your Smallest Movers

The majority of relocating families have dependent children. If you are moving with children, you probably researched schools before moving; however, personal school visits will transform the unknown into reality. Visits to new schools to survey the classrooms and meet teachers will go a long way to allay your, and your children’s, worries about the new environment.

Listen carefully to each child’s concerns— every move can bring new issues to the surface. Encourage your children to maintain contact with former friends, even while trying to make new friends.

Exchanging photos, having e-mail access and possibly a cell phone with a camera feature can help bridge the gap between old and new friends during the early weeks in a new location.

Dealing with challenges: Keep in mind that every stage and every age can bring new challenges. Children who sailed through the last move could be in an entirely different place emotionally and physically for this move, so parents cannot assume that a child will ease into the current move. Routinely share accomplishments and challenges with each other and talk about ways to overcome difficulties. Children need to know that even though the parents are responsible for uprooting them, you both have challenges to face, and you need to work together as a family to solve them.

The following signs may indicate that children are struggling with the adjustment: sudden reading difficulties, changes in attention span or study habits, weight loss or gain, altered enthusiasm or energy levels, strained relationships with you or their siblings, or disturbed sleep patterns. Stay closely involved with your children during the early months in a new location so you know how they are feeling, what they are thinking and who their new friends are.

yourself how your children are managing.

Both adults and children need the stability and comfort of established routines, so keep the same rules, bedtimes, mealtimes, allowances and expectations that you had before moving.

Children and Safety: When children are in an unfamiliar environment, they

• Review street crossing safety guidelines.

Consider volunteering or get involved with the school so that you can see for

can easily forget basic safety rules. The following are always a good reminder:

• Make sure children understand how to get help safely if they get lost.

• Keep close to a parent, and take an adult’s hand in crowded areas.

• Carry personal identification and phone numbers to contact parents at all times.

• Know where to meet in case families become separated.

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Medical and Safety Precautions

It is a fact that moving places additional stress on individuals; consequently, they are more vulnerable to accidents or illness, not to mention unexpected flare-ups of chronic health conditions. If an emergency occurs, every second counts; therefore, as a precaution, locate hospitals, pharmacies and physicians that will meet your family’s needs before an emergency arises.

Learn the procedures, telephone numbers and access codes for emergency care and always carry medical identification with you. Also, in an emergency, you may forget your new telephone number and/ or address, so before an emergency arises, program them into your cell phone and place written notes near each telephone in your home, including basic directions to your residence. Directions will not only be useful for family members in the early days at your new home, but they will also assist babysitters and visiting relatives.

Embrace the move

UNITED WE FIGHT. UNITED WE WIN. United Way of Williamson County fights for the health, education and financial stability of every person in every Williamson County community.

GIVE. ADVOCATE. VOLUNTEER. Learn more at www.unitedway-wc.org

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Whether or not you have children, or you are married, single or retired, relocating to a new community can ultimately become a wonderful and enriching experience. The suggestions in this article have worked for many relocating families, and they can also help your family become comfortable in your new home.

As a sidenote, when people learn that I’ve moved 19 times, the response is often “What place did you like best?” My answer is always the same: “Where my family was.” I wish you all the best!

About the Author | Beverly D. Roman founded BR Anchor Publishing in 1990 and has written more than 30 international and domestic relocation books. Two of her books won the Employee Relocation Council’s Achievement Award for Special Purpose Programs. Her international newsletter has supported corporations and the military in over 140 countries for more than18 years. Beverly served from 2002-2004 as founding chairperson for Families in Global Transition, Inc. (FIGT) an organization that focuses on the most critical issues associated with international cultural transitions. Contact her at broman@branchor.com, 904.641.1140 or visit www.branchor.com.

KEEPING WILLIAMSON COUNTY l u f i t u Bea Let Austin Keep It Weird; Williamson County is keeping it Green! The pride of the community is seen through the efforts to maintain a healthy ecology along with its economy.

Williamson County offers opportunities to recycle all daily household goods, hazardous waste disposal and co-ops where residents can pick up repurposable items such as boxes, woods and even paint! Programs and events provide the education and implementation for making and keeping the communities beautiful and sustainable for generations to come.

P H OTO BY R O B A LD R ID G E PH OTO G R A PHY, COURTESY OF BRYSON

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» SETTLING IN TO WILLIAMSON COUNTY As a rule of thumb, products with chemicals in them should only be kept around if they are used often. Over time, many chemical products have actually been taken off the market because they ultimately have caused more harm than good. Some of the products include: DDT, Malathion, Chlordane, Diazinon and even chemicals that are put in swimming pools.

So, why should you recycle then? Well, here are a few reasons. If you like clean water, discarding oils properly is important instead of throwing them down the drain. Do you like fresh air? Recycling can help to limit the use of landfills and dissipate the odors from those centers.

Do you like good food that is all-natural?

Recycling can help prevent chemicals from getting into the earth's soil. If you like the view of the blue sky, then don’t allow chemicals to get into the air, allowing for smog. Some might say that recycling takes a lot of time, but there are

It may seem like just another thing on your list, but making recycling part of your routine from the beginning makes a big impact. so many positives to our world that it's worth the minimal time and effort..

Chemicals in the Household

Disposing of household chemical can be a great challenge when moving. So often, there is nowhere to put the chemicals.

You can’t put them into a trash can, and they might spill in a moving van in transfer. So, what do you do? In some places in Williamson County, like Hutto and Georgetown, citizens pay utility fees for the city to recycle these harmful chemicals. A voucher just needs to be grabbed from the city, and the city officials will do the rest. Another option

BECAUSE OF

I TS CL E A N ER E M IS S I O N S, NATURAL GAS IS BETTER FOR

THE PLANET.

atmosenergy.com/WhyChooseGas

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is a pickup program, where people can leave these chemicals on the curb to be grabbed for recycling.

One neat service that the Williamson County Recycle Center offers is access to free cleaning products. If you come to their facility, you can grab products for free if they have legible labels, are in their original containers, and if they are still selling this product in stores. This allows for less waste, and is better for the planet, and the wallet.

Williamson County Recycling Events

In Hutto, Texas, there is an annual event where they gather batteries, motor oil, coolant, paint, tires and other items to be recycled. This event is meant to help neighbors and the community. Hutto wants to clean up their environment and create a lifestyle that cares about the world and the people that live there.

Check out www.HuttoTX.gov/BigEvent for information on this yearly event.

Not only does recycling go on at this event, but there are also a lot of fun activities to be a part of as well. Hutto puts on a breakfast and pep rally to encourage people to recycle - not just for a day but for a lifetime. After the gathering, volunteers head out to a variety of clean-up sites and recycling pick-up areas. After a morning of work, lunch is provided and prizes are given out to the people who have helped during the day.

Earth Day is also a day of focus in Williamson County. On April 22, this day is observed nationwide to give back to nature and the environment.

Unfortunately, after this one day, a lot of people tend to forget how to care for the earth. Since 2006, Williamson County

has made a more concerted effort to help recycle and clean up the environment in the heart of Texas.

E-Recycling When people think of recycling, they may just think of paper and plastic, but technology can also be recycled. Because of this recycling, landfills have been reduced around the world. Originally, Williamson County Recycle Center accepted hazardous electronic waste, but in 2011, Texas passed a law that makes computer manufacturers take back their products after they are no longer used by a customer. This has made e-waste recycling much easier for the state and the county. Currently, Williamson County Recycle Center no longer accepts e-waste for two reasons: the computer companies now have the responsibility, and Goodwill recycles for free.

Goodwill Industries helps the communities it's located in by offering great services to the public and training people who are looking to improve their work skills. Also, in terms of e-waste, they accept computers, mouses, cameras, phones, etc.

Safety Precautions Because the summers can be so hot in Texas, people need to be careful when moving chemicals around. When flammable chemicals are heated, the container can start to swell and the liquids can leak. Don't think your home free if you have a secure container. If vapor pressurizes enough, all containers can be compromised. Keeping your chemicals stored safely in a cool, shaded location is great, but once you bring them into the hot Texas sun, dangerous changes can occur. At the Williamson County Recycle Center, there are techniques on how to load chemicals appropriately for transit.

It may seem like just another thing on your list, but making recycling part of your routine from the beginning makes a big impact.

9 TIPS TO HELP GET SETTLED IN Write down three or four goals to achieve in your new city.

Continue all your special family celebrations and traditions.

Share some of your familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s special recipes and cultural aspects with new acquaintances and neighbors.

Keep a log of new experiences and accomplishments.

Give everyone in the family manageable moving chores (taking care of practical matters will take the edge off homesickness).

Join an athletic or special interest group.

Get involved in community and/or religious organizations, especially those that sponsor activities, volunteer efforts and programs for newcomers.

Learn about the local government, issues and politics.

Most importantly, be patient and

take one day at a time.

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ADVERTISER INDEX APARTMENT LOCATORS

ATX Apartment Locators

atxapartmentlocators.com

25

APARTMENTS

Hillstone at Wolf Ranch

hillstoneatwolfranch.com

89

Park at Crystal Falls

parkatcrystalfalls.com

89

Regal Parc Apartment Homes

www.regalparcapts.com

89

The Standard at Leander Station

lifeatthestandard.com

89

Toyota of Cedar Park

toyotaofcedarpark.com

38-39

Michelle's Patisserie

michellespatisserie.com

118

Paige's Bakehouse

paigesbakehouse.com

116

First Texas Bank

firsttexasbank.net

37

Security National Mortgage Company

snmc.com/kenwalker

27

SouthStar Bank / Mortgage

southstarbank.com/mortgage

32

COMMUNITY SERVICE

United Way of Williamson County

unitedway-wc.org

EDUCATION

Cedar Park Montessori

cedarparkmontessori.com

49

Challenger School Round Rock

challengerschool.com

51

Round Rock Christian Academy

rrca-tx.org

53

Sapientia Montessori

sapientiamontessori.com

49

Taylor ISD

taylorisd.org

43

Brookfield Residential

texas.brookfieldresidential.com

1

CalAtlantic

calatlantichomes.com

15

Giddens Homes

giddenshomes.com

Grand Endeavor Homes

grandendeavorhomes.com

Scott Felder Homes

scottfelderhomes.com

24

Steve Klein Custom Builder

steveklein.com

65

Candlewood Suites - Cedar Park

candlewoodsuites.com/cedarparknorth

16

Holiday Inn Express & Suites - Cedar Park

hiexpress.com/cedarparktx

16

INSURANCE

Anthony Hernandez, Jr Agency

insurecedarpark.com

30

REAL ESTATE COMPANIES

98th Meridian

98thmeridian.com

19

Adrienne Hughes – Hughes & Company Real Estate

hughes-and-company.com

14

Allyson Almeida – Austin 512 Realty

austin512realty.com

61

Andy Cuculich – Goodwin & Goodwin Real Estate

goodwin-goodwin.com

123

Bella Via Real Estate

bellaviarealty.com

AUTOMOTIVE BAKERIES BANKING AND MORTGAGE

HOME BUILDERS

HOTELS

Brenda Scholin – Keller Williams

31, 124

67 Inside Back Cover

5 22

Cindy Crawford Group – Keller Williams

cindycrawfordgroup.com/relo

63

Elaine Byrne Realty

elainebyrne.com

26

House Gals

housegals.com

66

Julie Floyd – eXp Realty

juliefloyd.aus.exprealty.com

64

Laura Kiker – Talley Real Estate

talleyrealestate.com

25

Realty Austin

realtyaustin.com

RE/MAX Vision

huttorealty.com

3

Team Excellence

thepowerof4.com

17

Williamson County Association of REALTORS®

wclife.org

RESIDENTIAL COMMUNITIES

Bryson - Crescent Communities

liveatbryson.com

RESTAURANTS

Mellow Mushroom

mellowmushroom.com

119

Mighty Fine Burgers Fries & Shakes

mightyfineburgers.com

115

Inside Front Cover

2, 23 Back Cover

Rudy's

bbqgo.com

117

SENIOR LIVING

Solea Cedar Park

soleacedarpark.com

95

TITLE COMPANIES

Independence Title

independencetitle.com

UTILITIES

Atmos Energy

atmosenergy.com/whychoosegas

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CLOSE TO IT

ALL

Minutes from shopping and work. Close to friends and family. Surrounded by community. Bryson is a master-planned community that blends the best of outdoor living, amazing amenities and unique home designs – all less than ten minutes from HEB Plus!, Whole Foods 365, MetroRail, 1890 Ranch Shopping Center, and acclaimed Leander ISD schools!

Live at your perfect pace in Bryson, located off 183A in Leander.

homes from the $300s to $500s

LiveAtBryson.com

GEORGETOWN

✪

29 AN REAG ALD RON

BROOKFIELD RESIDENTIAL CALATLANTIC HOMES CHESMAR HOMES DREES CUSTOM HOMES SCOTT FELDER HOMES PERRY HOMES

SAN GABRIEL PKWY. LEANDER

183A

1431

ROUND ROCK

4 87

JARRELL

P SPON SORED B Y MA d 970 arket R -to-M F a rm

ar -to-M k Ranch

95

et Rd 2338 195

43 y Rd 1 Count

ity

405

29

24

GEORGETOWN d ood R DBW

LIBERTY HILL

l Rd Shel

29

2

35

3826 30

130

23

r Loo

279

d stone Blv E White

Blvd

19

TAYLOR Limmer Loop

79

WN

Red Bud Ln

McN eil Rd

620

Blvd

34

95

1

ill Rd rson M Ande

W Ho

ward

Ln

35 130

183

EDUCATION 14 Cedar Park Montessori 15 Challenger School 16 Challenger School 17 Round Rock Christian Academy 18 Sapientia Montessori 19 Taylor ISD

HOTELS 31 Candlewood Suites 32 Holiday Inn Express & Suites INSURANCE 33 Anthony Hernandez, Jr Agency TITLE COMPANIES 34 Independence Title 35 Independence Title 36 Independence Title 37 Independence Title 38 Independence Title 39 Independence Title

FINANCIAL SERVICES 20 First Texas Bank 21 First Texas Bank COMMUNITY SERVICE 22 First Texas Bank 7 United Way of Williamson County 23 First Texas Bank 24 First Texas Bank DINING UTILITES 25 First Texas Bank 8 Mellow Mushroom 50 Atmos Energy 26 First Texas Bank 9 Michelle's Patisserie 10 Mighty Fine Burgers, Fries & Shakes 27 Security National Mortgage Company PRODUCED BY 11 Mighty Fine Burgers, Fries & Shakes 28 SouthStar Bank | Mortgage 29 SouthStar Bank | Mortgage 12 Paige's Bakehouse PH. 512-266-2900 FAX 512-266-2910 300 E. Highland Mall Blvd., Suite 395 30 SouthStar Bank | Mortgage 13 Rudy's Country Store & B-B-Q Austin, Texas 78752 1 AUTOMOTIVE 6 Toyota of Cedar Park

166 0

WILLIAMSON COUNTY

Realtor 973

ill R d

9

45

APARTMENTS 2 Hillstone at Wolf Ranch 3 Park at Crystal Falls 4 Regal Apartment Homes 5 The Standard at Leander Station

79

45

WP arm er Ln

ACTIVE ADULT LIVING 1 Solea Cedar Park

ark et R d

Farm -to-M arke t Rd

M

Farm-t

o -M

e kelin S La o n s de r

Rd

less

HUTTO

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5

183A

17

me

11 Blvd 28 183 8 40 E Old Settler's 6 18 13 36 r ope D 22 31 35 79 Blvd 10 wH 12 d R e n k RM 1 4 3 1 7 o 14 32 itest ree W Wh Brushy C 27 21 ROUND ROCK CEDAR Park St 17 Blvd h c Gattis School Rd n 33 a 20 yR r 15 e v 4 PARK A 16 An Lim e Cree k RM Rd 1 45 37

31 d 13

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29

29

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LEANDER 293

Rd

1

ast Southe

M Old F N

Na

Rd 97 -Market Farm-to

Dr e w ay Lak

Lake Georgetown

39

B

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183

25

Wil liam s Dr

Farm-to-Mar ket Rd 3349

nC

3 Farm-to-Market-Rd

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S

u

spotlight

Realty Austin www.RealtyAustin.com 512-241-1300

Julie Floyd, Broker, eXp Realty www.juliefloyd.aus.exprealty.com 512-627-6224

Austin 512 Realty www.austin512realty.com 512-680-8472

98th Meridian Real Estate Sales & Marketing Group www.98thMeridian.com

Talley Real Estate | ATX Apartment Locators TalleyRealEstate.com 512-876-4741

Cindy Crawford Group | Keller Williams Realty www.CindyCrawfordGroup.com 512-217-8990

Bella Via Realty www.bellaviarealty.com 512-731-3733

Elaine Byrne Realty www.elainebyrne.com 512-422-8088

RE/MAX Vision www.huttorealty.com 512-759-2210

Goodwin & Goodwin www.goodwin-goodwin.com 512-426-9090

The House Gals | Gaston & Sheehan Realty www.housegals.com 512-251-4950

Keller Williams - Brenda Scholin www.kw.com/kw/agent/ brendawillisscholin 512-731-6627

Team Excellence www.thepowerof4.com 512-504-7400

Hughes & Company Real Estate WWW.WC L I F E. O R G 1 29 www.Hughes-and-Company.com 512-810-0185