Public Notice: Street Cleaning Schedules and Healthcare Advisories

Official City Notice: Tuesday, February 17, 2026

Residents and visitors in the City of Boston should be aware of several active public service announcements, health advisories, and municipal notices effective today, Tuesday, February 17, 2026. Following the Presidents Day holiday, all municipal offices and health centers have resumed normal operations.

Public Health Advisory: Universal Masking in Healthcare Settings

Following updated guidance from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) regarding the 2025-2026 respiratory illness season, universal masking is currently required in all patient care areas within city health facilities. This advisory comes in response to high levels of Influenza A activity across the Commonwealth. Residents visiting clinics, hospitals, or community health centers are required to wear face coverings in waiting rooms, elevators, and examination areas. Masks are being provided at facility entrances for those who do not have one.

Public Works: Winter Street Cleaning Enforcement

The City of Boston reminds vehicle owners that street cleaning regulations remain in effect today. While daytime neighborhood street cleaning is seasonally suspended in many residential zones during the months of January and February, enforcement continues year-round for the following areas and schedules:

• North End, South End, and Beacon Hill: Daytime street cleaning remains active; vehicles must be moved according to posted signage to avoid ticketing and towing.
• Night Street Cleaning: Mechanical sweeping of main thoroughfares and downtown business districts continues on its standard overnight schedule.
• Weather Contingency: While current temperatures are nearing seasonal averages, residents should remain alert for potential snow emergency declarations which would supersede standard cleaning schedules.

Public Meeting: Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination

An official public meeting of the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD) is scheduled for today, February 17. The session will take place from 1:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at 1 Ashburton Place, Suite 601. The agenda includes standard administrative reviews and matters not reasonably anticipated by the Chair within 48 hours of the posting. Members of the public are invited to attend in person or via the official broadcast link.

Civic Requirement: 2026 Annual City Census

The City Clerk’s office reminds all households to complete and return the 2026 Annual City Census. State law requires this annual update to maintain accurate voter and jury lists. Residents who have not yet responded to the mailing are encouraged to do so via the secure online portal or by returning the physical form to City Hall. Accurate census data ensures the city receives proper allocation of state and federal resources.

Parks and Recreation: February School Vacation Week

Boston Parks and Recreation is currently hosting its February School Vacation Week programming. Today's activities include various open gym sessions and youth clinics at the Carter Field Bubble. While some specialized events, such as the Park Ranger stable tours, are scheduled for later in the week, residents are encouraged to check local community center schedules for daily drop-in sports and family-friendly activities.