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Georgetown, Texas: A Community on the Rise

Georgetown's town square is a hub of activity and community.

News Summary

Georgetown, Texas, is witnessing a significant population increase, with numbers rising from 86,000 to over 96,000 in just one year. The local school district is adapting to this growth by announcing new school developments and greener transportation options. With families attracted to its friendly atmosphere and lower home prices compared to nearby Austin, Georgetown is on a path to a promising future.

Georgetown, Texas: A Community on the Rise

Georgetown, Texas, located about 30 miles north of Austin, is experiencing a rapid transformation, making it one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation. With its bustling town square and friendly atmosphere, it’s no wonder that families are flocking to this charming community. In just one year, Georgetown’s population has jumped from over 86,000 to more than 96,000, a hefty 11% increase that has led the local school district to take some exciting steps to accommodate new residents.

Schools for Tomorrow’s Students

The Georgetown Independent School District (GISD) found itself in a bit of a pickle this school year. Initially projecting an enrollment of 13,743 students, the actual count soared to 13,920. With the population boom, the need for more educational facilities has become paramount. Superintendent Devin Padavil is keen on planning for the future, ensuring that the growing student body has access to quality learning environments.

To tackle this challenge, GISD is gearing up to introduce several new schools. An additional high school is on the books, set to open its doors in 2028 with a capacity of around 2,200 students. In just a few years, students will also see a middle school and an elementary school open up in Fall 2026. There’s a buzz around town, and with the ground officially broken for the new middle and elementary schools, as well as plans to kick off the high school’s development in March 2025, the community is rallying around this initiative.

More Families, More Options

Louise Brazitis, a local realtor, describes Georgetown as a wonderful, family-friendly community. Its vibrant town square is filled with shops, parks, and activities that cater to families looking for a great place to live. With home prices averaging $433,000 in Georgetown—around 3% lower than last year—it’s easy to see why families are opting for this quaint area over the pricier Austin, where average home prices soar to approximately $515,000.

Greener Transportation for a Brighter Future

two new propane-powered school buses. Thanks to a generous grant of $240,000 from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), these new buses will replace older diesel-powered models from 2006, promoting cleaner air for students during their journeys.

The cost for each new propane bus totals approximately $164,000, with most of the funding covered by the grant. GISD is contributing over $88,000 to the project. This proactive measure aims to create safer breathing conditions for children and reduce their exposure to harmful diesel emissions, which can lead to various health problems.

Future Opportunities

The emissions-reducing initiative is just one part of a larger commitment by TCEQ to support schools through various grant programs. While some applications are currently closed, opportunities remain for districts looking to lease or purchase modern vehicles, including electric and hybrid options. Applications for the GAFF program remain open until February 5, providing even more resources for school districts focused on sustainability.

Georgetown’s Bright Future

As Georgetown continues to grow and thrive, the GISD’s efforts in expanding educational facilities and updating transportation reflect a community that truly cares about its residents’ future. With new schools on the horizon and greener bus options becoming available, Georgetown is clearly preparing for a bustling and bright future for its families.