Public Service Roundup: Traffic Alerts and Health Advisories for February 21

Traffic Advisory: Downtown Events and Street Closures

The City of Boston is advising motorists and residents of significant traffic impacts in the Downtown, Government Center, and TD Garden areas on Saturday, February 21, 2026. These disruptions are due to large-scale events including the Red Bull Heavy Metal Finals at City Hall Plaza and multiple performances of Disney On Ice at TD Garden.

• Congress Street: Closed to vehicular traffic between State Street and New Sudbury Street from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. No vehicular access will be permitted toward the rear of City Hall Plaza via Congress Street.
• Cambridge Street: Expected to serve as the primary detour route. A Special Event Tow Zone is in effect on both sides of Cambridge Street from Court Street to New Sudbury Street. Tow enforcement is active from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
• TD Garden Area: Increased pedestrian and vehicle traffic is expected throughout the day due to scheduled performances at 11:00 a.m., 3:00 p.m., and 7:00 p.m.

In Roslindale, the Canterbury Street Bridge remains closed to vehicular traffic until further notice following a recent safety inspection. Pedestrian access is maintained, and drivers are directed to follow posted detours via Hyde Park Avenue and Cummins Highway.

Public Health Notice: Seasonal Flu and Respiratory Wellness

The Boston Public Health Commission has issued a reminder to residents regarding an increase in seasonal flu activity across the city. Health officials emphasize that influenza remains a serious risk, particularly for children, older adults, and those with chronic medical conditions. Residents are encouraged to:

• Seek vaccination if they have not yet received a flu shot this season.
• Stay home from work or school if experiencing fever or respiratory symptoms.
• Consider masking in crowded indoor spaces to mitigate the spread of viruses.

Recent air quality monitoring also noted conditions that may be unhealthy for sensitive groups due to atmospheric inversions. Individuals with asthma or cardiovascular issues are advised to limit strenuous outdoor activity during peak traffic hours.

Community Announcements and Municipal Services

The City of Boston continues to provide essential public services and community programming this Saturday:

• Mayor’s Youth Summit: The annual citywide celebration for residents aged 14-19 will take place today from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Artists For Humanity EpiCenter in South Boston.
• Fare-Free Transit: Mayor Michelle Wu recently confirmed the extension of the fare-free program for MBTA bus routes 23, 28, and 29 through June 2026.
• Parks Programming: The Parks and Recreation Department is hosting free community fitness sessions today, including Yoga with Carlos from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
• Annual Census: Residents are reminded to complete their 2026 annual census to ensure accurate voter rolls and city data as required by state law.