Official City Roundup: Council Meetings, Transportation Alerts, and Public Health Advisories

Public Notice: February 19, 2026 City Operations and Health Updates

As of Thursday, February 19, 2026, the City of Austin has released several official notices regarding municipal governance, major infrastructure projects, and public health safety. Residents are advised to review the following updates to prepare for service changes and travel impacts throughout the metropolitan area.

Austin City Council Regular Meeting and Public Sign-ups

The Austin City Council is scheduled to convene for a regular meeting today, February 19. This session focuses on critical infrastructure development and reviews of the city’s social services portfolio. Additionally, residents wishing to participate in future democratic processes should note that sign-up for General Public Communication for the upcoming March 12 meeting officially opens today. Interested speakers can register with the City Clerk’s Office to address the council on non-agenda items during the designated noon hour of the March session.

Significant Transportation and Infrastructure Alerts

The Austin Transportation and Public Works Department continues to manage long-term impacts from the I-35 Capital Central Express Project. Several closures and detours are currently active:

• I-35 Frontage Road: Access to the northbound I-35 frontage road just north of Riverside Drive remains closed. Motorists are instructed to utilize the newly opened Riverside Drive bypass lane to continue travel.
• Pedestrian Detours: The pedestrian boardwalk ramp along the northbound I-35 frontage road at Riverside Drive is now closed and is expected to remain inaccessible through 2029. Pedestrians should use the west sidewalk on the southbound bridge to cross the Colorado River.
• Congress Avenue Lane Reductions: Effective yesterday, February 18, northbound traffic on Congress Avenue has been reduced to a single lane. The southbound left-turn lane onto eastbound Cesar Chavez Street is closed, with detours available at 2nd Street.

Health Advisories and State Disaster Proclamations

Governor Greg Abbott has officially renewed the Flooding Disaster Proclamation as of February 16, 2026. This renewal affects Travis County and 29 surrounding counties, maintaining the state’s authorization to deploy resources for ongoing recovery and repairs following severe rainfall events that began last year. Residents should continue to follow local guidance regarding flood-damaged infrastructure.

Furthermore, Austin Public Health (APH) reminds the community that the region is currently in the peak of allergy and flu season. Officials urge residents who have not yet received their flu vaccinations to visit a neighborhood health center or local clinic. APH is also promoting the "Ask Listen Talk Repeat" mental health initiative, providing card sets at all Austin Public Library branches to help families navigate youth mental health challenges.

Public Safety and Law Enforcement Policy

The Austin Police Department (APD) recently held public forums to clarify department policies. Chief Lisa Davis stated that while the department adheres to state laws regarding administrative warrants, officers do not ask for the immigration status of individuals during routine interactions. The department emphasizes its commitment to community policing and ensuring all residents feel safe engaging with law enforcement.