Official City Roundup: Health Advisories and Infrastructure Updates
Health Advisory: Regional Increase in Mumps Cases
The Maryland Department of Health has issued an official advisory following a confirmed increase in mumps cases within the Baltimore metropolitan area. As of late February 2026, health officials have identified 26 cases statewide, with the majority of infections concentrated among adults in the Baltimore region. While the overall risk to the general public remains low due to high regional vaccination rates, the Department of Health urges residents to ensure their Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccinations are up to date.
Mumps is a viral infection characterized by parotitis—the painful swelling of the salivary glands. Other symptoms may include fever, headache, and loss of appetite. Residents experiencing these symptoms are advised to contact their healthcare provider immediately. To limit further transmission, the city recommends frequent handwashing and avoiding the sharing of drinks or utensils.
Public Service Announcement: Department of Transportation ‘Pothole Blitz’
Following a record-breaking winter storm earlier this month, the Baltimore City Department of Transportation (BCDOT) has launched an aggressive “pothole blitz” to address deteriorating road conditions. Transportation crews have already filled over 1,400 potholes citywide in the last week alone. The city has been divided into four quadrants to streamline repairs, with the highest volume of reports originating from West and Southwest Baltimore.
Officials report that nearly 1,000 road craters have been logged via the 311 system since the snow subsided. Residents are encouraged to continue reporting road hazards through the 311 mobile app or by calling the city’s service line directly. Crews are prioritizing high-traffic thoroughfares and emergency routes before moving into residential neighborhoods.
Service Alert: Street Sweeping Operations Suspended
The Baltimore City Department of Public Works (DPW) has announced that mechanical street sweeping remains suspended across all sectors. Persistent ice and snow accumulation along curb lines have made it unsafe for specialized equipment to operate effectively. This suspension is intended to prevent damage to city vehicles and ensure the safety of sanitation workers. Street sweeping services will resume on a regular schedule only after weather conditions improve and the curbs are cleared of winter debris. Residents will not be ticketed for street sweeping violations while this suspension is in effect.
Official Notice: Executive Leadership Nominations
Mayor Brandon M. Scott has announced a significant restructuring of the city’s development and planning leadership. Renata “Ren” Southard has been nominated to serve as the City Planning Director, and Timothy Keane has been nominated as the next Commissioner of Housing and Community Development. These appointments are subject to City Council confirmation. Current Housing Commissioner Alice Kennedy will transition to a newly created role as Executive Director of Community Affairs and Engagement. These leadership changes are scheduled to take effect on March 2, 2026, as the city moves toward a potential strategic merger of the housing and planning departments.