Public Notice: New Travel Regulations and Winter Transit Service Updates

TSA Federal ID Deadline: "Confirm ID" Program Begins Today

Effective today, Sunday, February 1, 2026, travelers at Boston Logan International Airport who do not possess a REAL ID or a valid U.S. passport are required to enroll in the Transportation Security Administration's (TSA) new “Confirm ID” program. This federal mandate requires passengers without compliant identification to undergo an identity verification process at security checkpoints. The verification process typically takes between 10 and 30 minutes and requires a $45 enrollment fee, which provides a 10-day travel clearance. The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) continues to urge residents to schedule in-person appointments to obtain a REAL ID to avoid ongoing travel fees and delays.

MBTA Service Advisory: Weekend Shutdowns Cancelled

The City of Boston and the MBTA have announced that all planned subway shutdowns and service diversions previously scheduled for the weekend of January 31 through February 1, 2026, have been cancelled. This adjustment to the maintenance schedule was made due to forecasted inclement weather, ensuring that residents have access to the full transit network during the storm. Regular weekend schedules are currently in effect across all lines. Commuters are encouraged to monitor real-time service updates throughout the day for any weather-related speed restrictions or minor delays.

Upcoming City Council Hearings and 2026 Rules Update

The Boston City Council has posted several official notices for public meetings beginning tomorrow. Residents should take note of the following scheduled sessions:

• Committee of the Whole: A virtual hearing is scheduled for Monday, February 2, at 2:00 PM to discuss Dockets #0124-0127. These dockets involve collective bargaining agreements for the Boston Firefighters IAFF Local 718 and the Boston Association of School Administrators and Supervisors (BASAS).
• Charter School Finance: The UP Academy Charter School Finance Committee will meet virtually on February 2 at 9:30 AM.
• Legislative Rules: The Council is expected to continue deliberations this week regarding the 2026-2027 City Council Rules, following a delay in the certification process earlier this year.

Public Works: Rutherford Avenue Infrastructure Phase

Construction activities for the major reconstruction of Rutherford Avenue, extending from City Square to Sullivan Square, remain active as the project enters its fourth year of a five-year infrastructure plan. Residents and motorists in the Charlestown area should anticipate ongoing lane shifts and potential traffic delays. This phase focuses on permanent infrastructure improvements, including sidewalk widening and the installation of protected bike lanes as part of the city's long-term capital budget goals for 2026.

Winter Parking and Community Reminders

With winter weather conditions affecting the city, the Transportation Department reminds residents that parking is prohibited on all posted Snow Emergency routes during active weather events to allow for essential plowing. Additionally, the 48-hour “space saver” rule remains in effect: residents who shovel out a parking spot may use a placeholder item for a maximum of 48 hours after a snow emergency is officially lifted. Furthermore, the city is monitoring the pending expiration of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitian nationals this month and encourages impacted residents to reach out to the Office of Immigrant Advancement for localized support and resources.