exTRA by the Trinity River Authority of Texas

The city of Mathis typically pumps its drinking water from Lake Corpus Christi, but worsening drought conditions are expected to plunge water levels too low to safely extract usable water.

As Texas continues to lead the nation in population and job growth, the conversation surrounding the state’s capacity to accommodate that momentum has intensified. This sustained economic and demographic expansion is often referred to as the “Texas Miracle”—a term used to describe the state’s remarkable ability to generate jobs, grow its economy, and attract both businesses and residents. But while much attention is paid to the results, less is said about the foundational infrastructure that makes it all possible.

The development, which would be built by Lennar Corporation, requires a wastewater treatment plant. The plant would treat and process sewage before dumping it into the Helotes Creek watershed, which feeds into the Edwards and Trinity aquifers.

New Braunfels City Council approved an engineering contract with Freese and Nichols Inc. for the remapping of the Dry Comal Creek, or DCC, Floodplain on Sept. 22.

Kyle’s new $603.6 million budget includes water and wastewater rate hikes starting Oct. 1—up to 77% for residents outside city limits and 15% for those within.

The city of Austin is starting a three-year study to see whether it is safe to store water it in the Carrizo-Wilcox Aquifer in Bastrop County.

Read: City of Austin seeking support for water storage plan in Bastrop County aquifer

City officials in Mathis say the wells will not affect local aquifers and hope state support will help speed up the timeline.

Ward One residents attend open house to learn about Beaumont’s $264 million bond election propositions.

Residents of Prosper will see an increase in water and wastewater bills. The new rates are as follows: Water: $94.01 per 13,000 gallons, up from $88.53, representing a 6% increase; Wastewater: $83.69 per 7,000 gallons, up from $72.70, a 15% increase.

Troy residents lost water service for hours after Goates Road leak, leading to a boil water notice. City administrator says aging infrastructure is causing more frequent breaks in the growing town.

Frisco officials approved the city’s $304.7 million fiscal year 2025-26 general fund budget and tax rate at a meeting Sept. 16.

The flood district will hold public meetings in early October for communities to address their ideas and experience with flooding in Harris County.

Texas voters will consider a proposed constitutional amendment aimed at improving water infrastructure using sales tax revenue this November.

A wave of massive data centers is expanding across Texas, prompting warnings from experts who say the new water demands could push the state’s already strained supply to the brink.

The Rio Grande Guardian was the first online newspaper to launch on the South Texas border, starting out in July, 2005. It is still the market leader, setting the pace and breaking news often before traditional media outlets.

The Lost Pines Groundwater Conservation District Each has approved three programs to support landowners, encourage conservation and protect groundwater in Bastrop and Lee counties.

Read: Lost Pines conservation district: New programs to help save water

Due to weather and dry conditions, Travis County commissioners approved the implementation of a new burn ban lasting through Oct. 21.

Colleyville homeowners will see a decrease to their tax bill and an increase to their utility bill in fiscal year 2025-26 after City Council members unanimously approved the FY 2025-26 utility rate, tax rate and budget at a Sept. 16 meeting.

The Barton Springs-Edwards Aquifer Conservation District in central Texas declared on September 12 “exceptional drought” conditions for just the second time in its 38-year history. The decision follows a rapid drop in groundwater levels at a monitoring well in South Austin. The 10-day average water level was 457 feet mean sea level

Laredo utility crews are working into Friday night to repair a sinkhole on E. Frost Street caused by a 36-inch water line break, along with additional discovered damage.