The community of Rough Hollow Lakeway recently donated 12 acres of land to the Lake Travis Independent School District for a future elementary school site. Rough Hollow, an 1,887-acre master-planned lakefront community, estimated the value of the land at approximately $1.1 million.
“It seems fitting to donate this land to something so near and dear to my heart,” said Haythem Dawlett, general partner of Rough Hollow. “I am happy to be able to contribute to the growth of our community and help accommodate additional elementary students.”
Fueled by a westward growth of homes from Austin proper, student enrollment in LTISD has increased 62 percent since 2004, and enrollment is increasing by approximately 300 to 400 students—6 to 7 percent—annually. Demographers estimate LTISD will be at full capacity by 2025, with a projected enrollment of 18,000 students. Construction of the Rough Hollow elementary campus may begin as early as 2018, depending on enrollment growth and a future bond referendum.
“This is a great day for LTISD,” said Dr. Brad Lancaster, LTISD Superintendent of Schools. “Haythem has a long history of philanthropic contributions which have directly impacted our students, our teachers, and our schools. However, none is likely greater than this donation.” He said it is a “critical first step” that will help the district with continued increases in student enrollment.
A deed signing ceremony was held at the campus site on Oct. 30, and attendees included LTISD, City of Lakeway, and Rough Hollow Lakeway officials. Lakeway Mayor David DeOme said, “I wish to thank Mr. Dawlett for his generosity to the City of Lakeway and the Lake Travis Independent School District. Mr. Dawlett is an outstanding example of how a civic-minded citizen can make a very positive impact on the quality of life in a community.”
Rough Hollow is 25 minutes from downtown Austin and offers lakeside living and hilltop views of Lake Travis. Rough Hollow students are zoned for LTISD, which includes Serene Hills Elementary School, Lake Travis Middle School, and Lake Travis High School.