Bastrop’s population increased to 8,519 in 2016, up 3.42 percent over the previous year, according to recently released U.S. Census population estimates.

The city’s population has surged 18.06 percent over the last six years, data show. Bastrop’s population ballooned from 7,218 in 2010 to 8,519 in 2016.

"I am not surprised at all with the population increase; it confirms what we all already know," Bastrop Mayor Connie Schroeder said. "Growth is coming and we must take strategic steps to stay ahead of it. We can be in control of growth or it can control us."

The city’s historic downtown and charm — coupled with its modern amenities — continues to attract new residents to the community, Bastrop Economic Development Corp. Executive Director Shawn Kirkpatrick said of the new population estimate.

"Just like new residents are discovering Bastrop, companies looking for a convenient location within the triangle between Austin, San Antonio and Houston — as well as access to Austin-Bergstrom Airport and a talented workforce — are inquiring about locating here," Kirkpatrick said.

The city’s economic development corporation is seeing interest in its bio- and life-science cluster in Bastrop, while tech companies are inquiring about a new dark fiber network under construction at Bastrop Business and Industrial Park, Kirkpatrick said. The Bastrop school district is also preparing its high school graduates with in-demand skills, turning over a possible workforce for companies looking to locate into the city.

Bastrop schools could house 13,405 students by the 2026-27 school year, according to projections made in a new demographic report by consulting firm Templeton Demographics. The school district currently serves close to 10,600 students from Bastrop, Cedar Creek, Red Rock, Rockne, Paige and other rural areas of Bastrop County.

Bastrop County was the 11th-fastest growing county in Texas from 2015 to 2016, according to Census data released in March.

In that year, Bastrop County grew by 3.15 percent, reaching an estimated population of 82,733 in 2016.

"Our growth is expected, since we are next door to perhaps the No. 1 economy in the nation," Bastrop County Judge Paul Pape said in March. "Jobs are available and our cost of living is relatively low."

Bastrop County’s net migration rate was 25.91 in 2016, meaning that for every 1,000 people in the county, about 26 of them were newcomers last year.

Smithville

Smithville, which is seeing new multifamily residential developments in the works, is estimated to have a population of 4,218 in 2016, up 3.38 percent over its population the previous year, data show.

"We have anticipated growth and strive daily to update our antiquated infrastructure and build relationships to promote responsible developments," Smithville Mayor Scott Saunders said. "Our small-town charm and feel continues to grow with the population — and the future looks great for Smithville."

Over the last six years, Smithville’s population has jumped 10.5 percent from 3,817 in 2010 to 4,218 last year.

"Smithville is rapidly becoming a ‘destination’ with more shopping, dining, entertainment, and lodging options available to both citizens and visitors alike," Smithville City Manager Robert Tamble said. "Bottom line: We are making progress but there is still much to do. Our success will depend on our ability to proactively manage growth in a manner that preserves and protects our small-town look, charm and feel."

Tamble said the population increase will drive the city’s need for new housing and business development. "As we continue to grow, the City anticipates additional requests for building permits, plan review, and inspections that will require more and more staff support."

Elgin

In the northwest corner of the county, Elgin’s population is estimated at 9,323 in 2016, up 4.6 percent from 2015. From 2010 to 2016, its population spiked 14.67 percent.

"Growth like this typically brings with it a corresponding increased demand for services from both the city and school district, but it also spawns commercial growth that will provide much-desired services and opportunities for our current residents," Elgin City Manager Tom Mattis said. "Given what projects we already have in development, we anticipate the growth to continue at this same — if not an even greater — rate."

Mattis, who said he welcomes and embraces growth, believes it’s a sign of continuing prosperity.