Official Notices: Cold Emergency Declaration and Winter Service Updates

Citywide Cold Emergency Declaration

Mayor Michelle Wu has officially declared a Cold Emergency for the City of Boston, effective from Saturday, February 7, through Monday, February 9, 2026. With wind chills forecasted to reach as low as -15°F early Sunday morning, the city is urging all residents to take immediate precautions to ensure personal safety and the well-being of neighbors.

• Warming Centers: Boston Centers for Youth & Families (BCYF) locations have been activated as warming centers during their standard operating hours. Residents are also encouraged to utilize the Boston Public Library’s Central Library in Copley Square and various branch locations for shelter from the extreme temperatures.
• Emergency Assistance: Residents who observe individuals experiencing homelessness or staying in vehicles during these extreme temperatures are urged to call 911 for immediate assistance.
• Home Safety: Property owners are reminded to keep thermostats at a consistent temperature to prevent pipe freezes. It is critical to ensure that all outdoor vents for heating systems are clear of snow or debris to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.

Public Safety: Super Bowl Weekend Traffic and Parking Restrictions

In anticipation of Super Bowl LX celebrations on Sunday, February 8, the Boston Police Department and the Boston Transportation Department have implemented temporary "Tow Zone No Stopping" restrictions across the city, active as of Saturday evening. These measures are designed to ensure public safety and maintain emergency vehicle access during high-traffic periods.

• Brighton and Kenmore Square: Extensive parking restrictions are in effect on Brighton Avenue, Harvard Avenue, and Bay State Road.
• Campus Corridors: Enhanced patrols will be present around Boston University and Northeastern University. Pedestrian access may be restricted in Kenmore Square and on Boylston Street starting Sunday evening.
• Public Transit: Residents and visitors are strongly encouraged to use the MBTA or Bluebikes to navigate the city. The MBTA recommends purchasing round-trip tickets in advance to avoid delays.

City Council Update: FY27 Budget and Senior Services Hearings

The Boston City Council has announced two significant public hearings regarding municipal priorities for the 2026–2027 term. While the council does not typically meet on Saturdays, these formal notices remain active for public review and testimony preparation.

• FY27 Operating Budget: Under Docket #0201, the Committee on Ways and Means is reviewing the city’s proposed operating budget. This docket focuses on departmental requests for information (RFI) and long-term fiscal planning.
• Senior Programming: Docket #0287, sponsored by Councilor Erin J. Murphy, focuses on a comprehensive review of services for older adults across all Boston neighborhoods. Public testimony for this matter is currently being accepted via email or written submission.

Infrastructure and Bridge Alerts

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) and the City of Boston have issued a persistent traffic advisory for the Roslindale and Hyde Park areas. The Canterbury Street Bridge remains closed to all vehicular traffic until further notice following a recent structural inspection.

• Detours: A primary detour route is in place using Hyde Park Avenue, Cummins Highway, and Seymour Street. Motorists should expect delays and follow all posted signage.
• Rutherford Avenue Redesign: The city is finalizing the "25 percent" design phase for the Rutherford Avenue and Sullivan Square project. A spring 2026 deadline is approaching for design submission to secure nearly $200 million in dedicated funding.