Vaccination Nation

Austin declared one of 14 anti-vaccine 'hot spots' in the U.S.

The map shows the 14 anti-vaccination "hot spots" in the U.S. Public Library of Science (PLOS)

KVUE — Austin is one of 14 so-called "hot spots" around the U.S. where there's a delay or refusal to vaccinate, according to the Public Library of Science (PLOS), a medical publisher and advocacy organization.

The reason why there is an increase in anti-vaxxers in the Austin area is because a Texas law allows "conscientious exemption." This means that Texas parents don't have to have a medical or religious reason to stop their kids from getting vaccinated.

According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, the number of parents requesting that vaccine exemption went up 19 percent in 2018.

The number of exempt students in area schools is still low, but private schools seem to have higher rates, including Austin Waldorf School. Roughly 49 percent of students on that campus haven't been vaccinated.

---

To read the full story, head to KVUE.

health kids science city-news-roundup

Cleared for landing

New Austin park marks end stage of 20-year plan to redevelop old airport

Roger Lavon Taylor Sr. Plaza Park aerial image showing bridge and tower

Roger Lavon Taylor Sr. Plaza Park is now open to the public. Photo by Jane Yun

A new park surrounding a former airport structure has debuted in Austin's Mueller neighborhood. Called the Roger Lavon Taylor Sr. Plaza, it is now open to the public.

The park design is relatively simple, encircling the airport's old control tower with paved areas and a pedestrian bridge. A hill in the center is partially terraced with small retaining walls, which in some cases could double as seating. Plants including native grasses have been added, but have yet to fill in the space. Some young trees could be focal points and shade providers in years to come.

Crowd on Roger Lavon Taylor Sr. Plaza Park steps People gather on the steps during the opening ceremony.Photo by Jane Yun

The park is named after a Mueller community member who advocated to keep the control tower standing. Although Taylor pushed to move the airport, he recognized the control tower as a landmark. He was part of the Citizens for Airport Re-Location (CARE) group, which put forth the redevelopment plan for the area. Taylor passed away in November 2012.

An interesting departure from the rest of the modern neighborhood, the blue-striped and flared tower is one of the last remaining relics of Mueller's past. The retro look will remain as-is.

Performers from Blue Lapis Light, an aerial arts group that is known for performing on structures around Austin highlighted the tower during an opening ceremony for the park on March 29, dangling off the top ledge. Other representatives including CEO of Arterra Development Greg Weaver, Austin Mayor Kirk Watson, and Taylor's adult children spoke at the event.

Blue Lapis Light performers on former Austin control tower Blue Lapis Light performers highlighted the tower in a dramatic way.Photo by Jane Yun

The opening of the plaza is a milestone in the 20-year plan to transform Austin's prior airport not only into something livable, but into what the city calls an "urban village." Austinites in the 2020s now know the area as a residential hub filled with pleasant-looking houses and restaurants like the influential L'Oca d'Oro or the newcomer from South Africa, Nando's.

This is the final named park to open as part of the redevelopment plan. As late as 2024 there have still been amendments to the plan, including an extension to finish work by the end of 2027, but the end is increasingly within sight. To a casual visitor, most parts of Mueller certainly look complete.

Roger Lavon Taylor Sr. Plaza is located at 3925 Berkman Dr.

parks families airport mueller urban renewal

Featured Event