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Public Notice: Primary Election Reminders and City Infrastructure Updates

AuthorEditorial Team
Published
March 1, 2026/09:00 AM
Section
Social
Public Notice: Primary Election Reminders and City Infrastructure Updates
Source: Wikimedia Commons / Author: Lorie Shaull

Voting and Elections: 2026 Primary Election

As of Sunday, March 1, 2026, the City of Austin and Travis County are entering the final countdown for the 2026 Primary Election, scheduled for Tuesday, March 3. With early voting having concluded on Friday, February 27, residents are reminded that there is no voting on Sunday or Monday. Voters should use this time to verify their designated Election Day polling locations, as some neighborhood sites may have changed since previous cycles. Polls will be open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday. Registered voters must bring a valid form of photo identification to the polls.

Infrastructure and Transportation: I-35 Capital Express Updates

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) continues significant work on the I-35 Capital Express Central and North projects. Commuters are advised that the reconstruction of the Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard bridge remains in an active phase, with crews focused on the demolition and rebuilding of the southern side of the structure. This work includes the maintenance of a safety buffer to separate pedestrian traffic from vehicular flow. Additionally, construction continues near Lady Bird Lake, where a new Riverside Drive bypass lane is being prepared for upcoming traffic shifts. Travelers should expect ongoing lane narrowings and reduced speed limits in temporary construction zones along Ross Road and Pearce Lane.

Public Health: Seasonal Advisories and Heart Health

Austin Public Health (APH) remains in a period of heightened surveillance for seasonal respiratory illnesses. While flu activity traditionally peaks earlier in the winter, health officials emphasize that it is not too late for residents to receive their flu vaccinations. Concurrent with the transition into March, the central Texas region is also seeing a rise in seasonal allergens. In observance of the conclusion of American Heart Month, APH is collaborating with community partners to promote 'Hands-Only CPR' education, particularly focusing on addressing hypertension and heart disease disparities in historically underserved communities. Residents are encouraged to utilize local neighborhood centers for health resources and screenings.

Parks and Community Development

The Parks and Recreation Department has announced that the transition to the 2026 swim season is underway. While many facilities remain in winter status, seasonal entry fees for several municipal pools are scheduled to begin on Saturday, March 14. In the housing sector, the Housing Authority of the City of Austin (HACA) is currently hosting a public comment period regarding proposed changes to the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Administrative Plan and the Draft 2026 PHA Annual Plan. Residents interested in providing feedback on local housing policy are encouraged to submit written comments before the upcoming public hearing deadlines later this month.