Official Baltimore City Notice: Winter Service Updates and Public Safety Advisories
Public Service Announcement: Street Sweeping Suspension Remains in Effect
The Baltimore City Department of Public Works (DPW) has issued an official service alert confirming that mechanical street sweeping remains suspended across the city as of Friday, February 13, 2026. This suspension is a direct result of the lingering snow and ice accumulations along curb lines following the major winter storm in late January. Officials have determined that cold temperatures and remaining ice blocks make it unsafe to operate mechanical sweeping equipment. Residents are advised that sweeping services will only resume once weather conditions improve and the curbs are clear of hazardous obstructions. DPW continues to monitor conditions daily, and residents should check the official city portal or call 311 for the latest block-specific updates.
Public Safety Alert: Parking Violation Text Messaging Scam
The Maryland Judiciary and the Baltimore City District Court have issued a high-priority warning regarding a sophisticated text messaging scam targeting local vehicle owners. Fraudulent messages are being sent to residents claiming to be a "Notice of Default" for unpaid parking fines. These texts often direct recipients to report to the District Court at 1400 E. North Avenue and include fictitious links to a mirrored Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) website. The Judiciary explicitly states that Maryland courts do not request payments or personal information via text message. Residents are urged not to click any links or provide financial details. If you receive a suspicious message regarding a parking citation, contact the District Court directly through official channels to verify your status.
Community Development: Reinvest Baltimore Applications Open
Official notices have been posted regarding the launch of the Reinvest Baltimore Action Plan. This initiative, a coordinated effort between the State of Maryland and Baltimore City, is now accepting applications for the Baltimore Vacants Reinvestment Initiative. The program aims to address the concentration of vacant properties throughout the city, with a measurable goal of transitioning 5,000 vacant units into homeownership or stable community use over the next five years. Property owners, developers, and nonprofit partners interested in neighborhood revitalization are encouraged to review the updated criteria and submit applications through the Department of Housing and Community Development portal.
Health and Weather Advisory: Weekend Storm Precautions
The Maryland Department of Health (MDH) continues to emphasize winter safety following recent reports of cold-related fatalities in the Baltimore region. Health officials are urging vulnerable residents, including seniors and those experiencing homelessness, to utilize city-funded warming centers. Furthermore, a weather advisory has been issued for the upcoming Valentine’s Day weekend, as a new storm system is expected to bring heavy rain and potential localized flooding to the area. Residents are reminded to clear debris from storm drains to prevent blockages and to maintain a supply of emergency essentials should power interruptions occur during the transition from freezing temperatures to heavy precipitation.
Public Library Service: Friday Community Programming
Baltimore County Public Library branches are hosting specific community events today, February 13. The Towson branch is holding its "Making Masterpieces" art workshop at 10:30 a.m., while the Hereford branch is hosting "Yoga for Beginners" at 1:00 p.m. These public programs are free of charge and open to all residents as part of the city's ongoing commitment to accessible community education and wellness.