Official Notice Roundup: City Council Updates and Post-Storm Advisories

City Council Approves New Spending and Labor Policies

During the regularly scheduled meeting on Thursday, January 29, 2026, the Austin City Council moved forward with several high-profile administrative changes. Most notably, the Council approved a new policy aimed at tightening regulations on office budget spending for the mayor and council members. The measure, which passed in a 6-4 vote, restricts the use of taxpayer funds for personal travel upgrades, certain membership fees, and food and drink for personal consumption. Additionally, the Council directed the City Manager to establish a formal policy for regular consultations with the city's civilian workforce, represented by AFSCME Local 1624, to address ongoing concerns regarding departmental restructuring.

Extended Road Closures: I-35 Capital Express Central Project

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has announced that several scheduled lane closures along the I-35 corridor near downtown have been extended through mid-February. Recent weather conditions delayed the completion of bypass lane construction near Lady Bird Lake. For the evening of Thursday, January 29, motorists should expect the following:

• South-to-North U-Turn: The U-turn lane beneath the Lady Bird Lake bridge will remain closed nightly from 8:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
• Main Lane Impacts: Periodic closures of the northbound I-35 frontage roads near Riverside Drive continue as crews work to finalize the northbound bypass lane.
• Safety Reminder: Drivers are urged to reduce speeds in work zones and follow all posted detour signs.

Winter Weather Recovery and Public Health Advisories

While the City of Austin has officially deactivated its Emergency Operations Center (EOC) following this week's winter storm, health and safety officials are urging continued caution. Temperatures in shaded areas may cause refreezing on sidewalks and bridges during the overnight hours of January 29. Public service announcements remain active for the following services:

• Cold Weather Shelters: Emergency shelters remain operational through at least Sunday for those in need of warmth. Embarkation is available at One Texas Center daily from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
• Statewide Animal Health Initiative: As of today, January 29, the Texas Department of State Health Services has opened applications for the $13 million Texas Spay and Neuter Pilot Program. Local nonprofits and shelters are encouraged to apply for grants to support vaccination and pet population control.
• Drought Proclamation: Residents should note that Governor Greg Abbott has renewed the Drought Disaster Proclamation for Travis County, maintaining active water conservation awareness across the region.