Official Notice: City Service Updates and Post-Storm Guidelines for January 27

School Closures and Municipal Reopenings

Following a significant winter storm that dropped approximately 19 inches of snow across the region, Mayor Michelle Wu has announced that Boston Public Schools (BPS) will remain closed today, Tuesday, January 27, 2026. This additional closure is intended to allow city crews sufficient time to clear sidewalks and widen roadways to ensure the safety of the city's 700-bus fleet and pedestrian students. While schools are closed, Boston City Hall, Boston Centers for Youth and Families (BCYF), and all Boston Public Library branches are scheduled to reopen for normal operations today.

Winter Weather Safety and Maintenance

The citywide snow emergency and parking ban were officially lifted as of 8 p.m. on Monday, January 26. Residents who utilized participating discounted garages must have their vehicles removed by 10 p.m. tonight to avoid being charged regular rates. Key safety reminders for today include:

• Sidewalk Clearing: Property owners are legally required to clear snow and ice from sidewalks adjacent to their property. With temperatures expected to remain below freezing throughout the week, clearing paths promptly is critical for public safety.
• Space Savers: Per city regulations, space savers must be removed from public roadways by 8 p.m. on Wednesday, January 28, which marks 48 hours after the end of the snow emergency. Note that space savers are prohibited at all times in the South End and Bay Village.
• Warming Centers: While the official cold emergency ended Sunday, residents are encouraged to check on neighbors and call 311 for non-emergency assistance or 911 if they encounter individuals at risk in the cold.

Trash and Recycling Delays

Due to the recent storm and Monday's holiday schedule, trash and recycling collections are experiencing a one-day delay in several neighborhoods. Residents are encouraged to leave their bins out an extra day if their typical collection was missed on Monday. Specific neighborhood schedules can be verified through the city’s official waste management tools.

Public Hearings and Council Activity

Official city business continues today with several scheduled public notices and hearings being held in a virtual format:

• Zoning Board of Appeal: A public hearing is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. to be held virtually via the Zoom platform. The agenda includes various appeals and administrative matters noticed in accordance with the city charter.
• DCR Facilities: The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) expects to reopen most agency-managed recreation facilities, visitor centers, and skating rinks today following the completion of snow removal operations.