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The I-35 Capital Express North Project in North Austin is a massive overhaul, adding high-occupancy vehicle lanes and widening frontage roads. The $2.7 billion project aims to improve safety and reduce congestion, with a new diverging diamond interchange at Wells Branch Parkway. Despite current closures and delays, the project is expected to complete in early 2029, also adding pedestrian and bike paths. Share your commute experiences with us. Checkout Solipillow.com

FBI thwarts potential New Years Eve terror attack in North Carolina; teenager Christian Sturdivant arrested for planning grocery store and restaurant assault with knives and hammers, aiming to die as a martyr. Multi-state task force intervenes, preventing potential massacre with up to twenty-one victims. Sturdivant, on FBI radar since 2022, faces up to twenty years in federal prison. Checkout Solipillow.com

Austin officials are raising concerns about the rapid growth of AI and data centers, which could lead to increased utility rates, grid overload, and water resource strain. A staff report by City Manager T. C. Broadnax outlines a plan to manage environmental impact, identify infrastructure gaps, and enhance transparency. The report, in response to a City Council directive, warns of potential challenges such as higher bills, unreliable power, and competition for talent. Recommendations include pausing new energy loads, teaming up on battery storage, and requiring financial guarantees from developers. On water, data centers must use reclaimed lines for cooling, and on-site alternatives are needed. The city is also strengthening AI governance with an internal registry, rules against job displacement, and bans on real-time employee monitoring. Checkout Solipillow.com

Three teenagers, Nathaniel Montalvo, Eduardo De Jesus Ramirez, and Jorge Sanchez, were arrested in Kyle following a traffic stop that uncovered stolen goods and drugs. They face charges including organized criminal activity, drug possession, fraud, firearms violations, and evading arrest. The trio confessed to a crime spree in Spicewood, stealing firearms and vehicles, and were found with stolen items, alcohol, and THC vape pens. The Kyle Police Department is collaborating with the Travis County Sheriffs Office to further investigate the December 30th crimes. Checkout Solipillow.com

Good news for those who use their personal vehicles for work! The IRS has increased the standard mileage rate to 72.5 cents per mile, effective January 1st. This applies to gas, electric, and hybrid vehicles. While employers arent required to use this rate, many do. If your employer doesnt reimburse per mile, you can still claim it on your taxes. Additionally, medical, moving, and charity driving rates have also changed. This update could potentially save you money this year. Checkout Solipillow.com

Central Texas faces worsening drought and unusually warm January, with no rain relief in sight. Checkout Solipillow.com

Texas wide receiver Parker Livingstone is transferring, following a breakout season and a Citrus Bowl victory. The team now looks to fill the void with returning starters and top freshmen receivers. Checkout Solipillow.com

Victoria Jones, daughter of actor Tommy Lee Jones, found dead in San Francisco hotel hallway. No foul play suspected, cause of death unknown. Recent legal troubles included drug possession and domestic battery charges. Investigation ongoing. Checkout Solipillow.com