We plan to ride out to the Maker Faire the weekend
of Oct. 20-21, and wanted to check in with you guys on route info. Its on
decker lane at Walter E Long Lake/Park.

I found this - http://bicycleaustin.info/getaround/route-elgin.html
Which has some good info - but was wondering if anyone has ridden out this
way recently and can comment on a good route from central austin.

I ride that route (or very similar) all the time - as recently as a couple of weeks ago. No major problems or construction. It's still probably the best way to get to the TCE. Some people like MLK (to cross 183) as it has an overpass. You can then take a left on Johnny Morris and it will take you over to Loyola. It doesn't save any distance however - and IMO there is more overall traffic to deal with.

To get to Loyola from Central Austin, you could take Manor Rd. all the way if you wanted. Manor is pretty decent. Left on Springdale, where it dead-ends, then a right on Loyola. The light to cross 183 here is easy for a bike.

Other good options are Manor Rd to Springdale, L, go under 183, R on Old-Manor Rd., R on Dafin, this takes you all the way to TCE as well. I ride this often as well. No major obstacles, and little traffic once you leave Springdale. I would definitely take this route back, as Loyola West-bound is difficult for a bike.