LPGCD Launches New Website Features To Make 659 Documents, 15,441 Pages More Accessible For The Public

The Lost Pines Groundwater Conservation District (LPGCD or District) has made 659 documents totaling 15,441 pages more accessible to residents across Bastrop and Lee Counties. The initiative supports the District’s commitment to transparency while proactively preparing for the U.S. Department of Justice’s ADA Title II rule, 28 CFR Part 35, which sets an April 26, 2027 compliance deadline for public entities serving populations under 50,000.

Built on WCAG 2.1 AA standards and the Americans with Disabilities Act, the website transforms PDF files into searchable, translatable HTML so residents can more easily find and understand public information. The District’s accessible document library includes current and archived materials, helping ensure that legacy content is not left behind.

The new platform also includes instant translation in more than 250 languages, the ability to ask questions about documents in any language, and AI-powered search that lets residents use plain language to find what they need. It also supports mobile-friendly viewing, including older handwritten or scanned documents, and provides free 24/7 live visual interpretation. We now also offer 24/7 bilingual support in English and Spanish from accessibility experts, including free assistance to help the public navigate documents, complete forms, and understand content.

By making materials easier to use on any device, the District is reducing barriers for people who may be accessing information on a phone, using assistive technology, or reviewing scanned and older documents. We want our community to be able to get the information they need without unnecessary barriers. Groundwater affects everyday life in this region, and if someone is trying to read a meeting packet, review a budget, or understand a conservation update, that information should be accessible. This is about serving our residents with clarity, respect, and accountability.