City Bulletin: Critical Public Safety Hearing and Infrastructure Updates for February 19

Official Notice: City Council Hearing on Computer-Aided Dispatch System

The Baltimore City Council Committee on Legislative Investigations has scheduled a critical informational hearing for Thursday, February 19, 2026, at 4:30 PM. The session will focus on the current status and reliability of the city’s Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) system. Officials from the Baltimore City Office of Information and Technology, the Baltimore City Fire Department, and the Baltimore Police Department are expected to provide testimony regarding:

• Protocols for maintaining the CAD system during peak usage.
• Communication strategies and restoration procedures following system outages.
• The proposed timeline and budget for a full replacement of the aging dispatch infrastructure.

Residents are encouraged to monitor this hearing as it directly impacts emergency response efficiency across the metropolitan area.

Public Works Advisory: Charles Street Water Main Replacement

The Department of Public Works and Transportation, in collaboration with the State Highway Administration, reports that the Charles Street water main replacement project is now 95% complete. Crews have been working to replace approximately 4,200 linear feet of 12-inch and 16-inch water mains extending from the Baltimore City line to Bellona Avenue. While the project is nearing its 2026 completion date, motorists should remain alert for minor lane shifts and construction personnel finishing final utility tie-ins along this corridor.

Public Health & Safety: Winter Weather Travel Advisory

Following recent winter storm activity, the Baltimore City Health Department and Public Schools are issuing a safety reminder for all residents. Although schools and city buildings are operational, localized ice remains a hazard on secondary roads and pedestrian walkways. The following precautions are advised:

• Watch carefully for black ice on sidewalks, steps, and at bus stops.
• Walk slowly and use handrails where available to maintain balance.
• Report hazardous campus or street conditions to the city via the 311 service line.

Community Notice: Black History Month Observances

As part of Baltimore’s ongoing Black History Month celebration, the city continues to host cultural exhibits and community forums. Residents are invited to explore the local heritage sites and participating galleries throughout the week. Special attention is directed toward the legislative efforts currently before the City Council aimed at strengthening local laws regarding the use of city-owned spaces such as parks and libraries to ensure they remain inclusive and accessible community hubs.