Austin has again secured a spot among Penske Truck Rental’s Top 10 Moving Destinations for all of 2024, highlighting the city’s enduring appeal despite evolving migration patterns. This marks the fifth consecutive year Austin has featured on Penske’s annual list, which is based on one-way truck rental data. While Austin remains a popular relocation choice, […]
Chad Swiatecki
Chad Swiatecki is a 20-year journalist who relocated to Austin from his home state of Michigan in 2008. He most enjoys covering the intersection of arts, business and local/state politics. He has written for Rolling Stone, Spin, New York Daily News, Texas Monthly, Austin American-Statesman and many other regional and national outlets.
Posted inPublic Safety
City reports fewer crimes, stable crowds in Sixth Street pilot
Data from the city’s efforts to revitalize the Sixth Street Entertainment District show reductions in violent crime and public safety incidents, according to a new memo summarizing the results of a pilot program launched late last year. A recent memo from Development Services Department leadership to City Council reported a modest, but notable, decline in […]
Posted inWhispers
City releases budget engagement survey
Austin residents have the opportunity to weigh in on the city’s financial priorities through a newly launched budget engagement survey. The survey follows the conclusion of a series of community budget conversations hosted throughout April by City Manager T.C. Broadnax. Those conversations were intended to gather public input ahead of the formal budget process. The […]
Posted inPlanning
Density bonus programs under review to address affordability needs, market conditions
The city is moving forward with reforms to several of its density bonus programs, following the recommendations from an analysis completed earlier this year. A recent presentation to City Council’s Housing and Planning Committee outlined several modifications underway or in the planning stages that will better align with the changing economics of development and construction, […]
Posted inWhispers
Central Health hosts Community Conversation on May 7
Central Health will host a community conversation with Travis County Commissioner Ann Howard on May 7, offering updates on efforts to improve health care access and delivery for Travis County residents. The event, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the McBeth Recreation Center, will include an overview of Central Health’s ongoing strategic plan initiatives. Topics […]
Posted inWhispers
Job fair seeks Austin workers for infrastructure, manufacturing openings
Austin-area job seekers interested in manufacturing careers will have the opportunity to meet with local employers at the 2025 Manufacturing Job Fair, scheduled for May 7. The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Workforce Solutions Capital Area’s North Career Center, located at 9001 N. Interstate Highway 35, Suite 110. Organized […]
Posted inWhispers
Downtown Austin Alliance seeks proposals for new Vibe Weekend event
Artists and creatives in Austin are invited to apply to a new open call for Vibe Downtown, an annual event series launching this fall to celebrate the city’s creative energy. Applications are now open through May 5 for proposals to produce cultural experiences during Vibe Weekend, which is scheduled for September 19–20 on the historic […]
Posted inBonds & Propositions
New libraries, parks, health centers among facilities eyed for 2026 bond proposal
Up to four new libraries, more neighborhood health centers, and a host of new park properties and recreation centers are among the facilities being considered for the city’s next bond election that will likely take place in 2026. Representatives from three city departments presented their bond project goals and plans this week to the city’s […]
Posted inWhispers
Movability to explore solutions for workplace transportation in Austin
Movability will host an event titled “Workforce Mobility Solutions for a Changing Austin” on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, from 8:00 to 11:00 a.m. at the Indeed Tower. The event aims to bring together business leaders, policymakers, and transportation experts to discuss solutions around mobility issues tied to workforce management. Topics will include: transportation demand management, […]
Posted inWhispers
City to celebrate 5th Street Mexican American Heritage Corridor
City leaders will join members from Mexic-Arte Museum, the Austin-Saltillo Sister Cities Association, and the Downtown Austin Alliance for a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, May 2, to celebrate the ongoing development of the Fifth Street Mexican American Heritage Corridor. The event will begin at 9 a.m. at the corner of Fifth Street and Congress Avenue, […]
Posted inWhispers
City seeks applicants for Sobering Center board
City Council is accepting applications to fill a vacancy on the board of the Sobering Center Local Government Corporation. The selected applicant will serve the remainder of a term that runs through Dec. 31, 2026. The 11-member board oversees the Sobering Center, a joint initiative between the city and Travis County that provides short-term care […]
Posted inAustin
Homelessness strategy plan calls for $101M in spending from city, partner groups
Austin’s Homeless Strategy Office is proposing a funding package totaling just under $101 million for homelessness response efforts in the city’s next budget, with about one-third allocated toward maintaining existing programs, one-third for new city investments, and one-third for initiatives expected to be funded by partner organizations. The spending plan laid out in a presentation […]