Located in the northern extremes of Austin, the Wells Branch neighborhood is a vibrant community established in 1982. The residential area is quiet and serene, while being in close proximity to the crown jewel of North Austin – the new Domain shopping center. Wells Branch Parkway is one of the main arteries connecting IH 35 and Mopac, making this neighborhood accessible to the employers and schools of Round Rock and the northern areas, as well as to downtown Austin. Their vigorous neighborhood association sponsors many activities, including parades, clubs, dance and exercise lessons and holiday celebrations, creating a true community.
The boundaries of the Wells Branch neighborhood are IH 35 to the east, Mopac to the west, Grand Avenue Parkway to the north and Wells Branch Parkway to the south. In addition to the Domain, major shopping areas are easy to get to, including La Frontera, Gateway and the Arboretum. With a planned stop on Capital Metro’s new light rail service coming to Wells Branch, this area is one of the most accessible in the greater Austin region. The initial line of the light rail is slated to have a station in the Howard Lane area just West of Mopac.
Although this community is extremely accessible, it is one of the rare gems in Austin that has a wealth of amenities within, and specifically for, the community. The Wells Branch Municipal Utility District provides more than just trash and recycling services – it acts as a true community hub. The MUD offers summer camps, youth programs such as fishing clinics and swimming lessons, and annual family oriented events including a Pioneer Day celebration and their Memorial Day Fun and Casino Night. Throughout the summer, they present an early evening concert series, held in the park.
The heart of the neighborhood is Katherine Fleisher Park. Featuring a playscape, sports courts and a pool, this park has a unique feature – an 1850s-era cabin complex available for tours and festivals in the community, called the Homestead. A second pool is available in Wells Branch – the Willow Bend pool, and North Mills Park is the second park in the community. Wells Branch Recreation Center features a full-size basketball court, a workout room with exercise machines and free weights, and multi-purpose rooms for fitness classes and meetings.
One of the most unique and engaging offerings of the neighborhood is the Wells Branch Community Garden. Members share a piece of land dedicated to the organic cultivations of vegetables, flowers, and other plants, tending their assigned patch while maintaining social bonds with other community members. Their goal is to work together to grow better vegetables, find good organic cures for all challenges, including insects, fertilization, weathering, and to connect on a social level with their neighbors.
With a multitude of amenities within the community, unparalleled accessibility to all areas of the greater Austin region, and an established neighborhood dating back over a quarter of a century, Wells Branch embraces modern conveniences while still providing a solid foundation.