Official Bulletin: Fire Department Ceremony and Vital City Deadlines

Health Advisory: Blue-Green Algae Alert for Lake Conway

The Florida Department of Health in Orange County (DOH-Orange) has issued a health advisory for the St. Regis Place area of Lake Conway following the detection of blue-green algae. Residents and visitors are urged to exercise extreme caution as these blooms can produce toxins harmful to humans and animals. Official recommendations include avoiding swimming, wading, or using personal watercraft in areas with visible blooms. Additionally, pet owners should prevent animals from drinking or entering the water. If skin contact occurs, wash thoroughly with soap and clean water. This advisory remains active until further notice as water sample testing continues.

Public Safety: Orlando Fire Department New Hire Ceremony

Mayor Buddy Dyer, City Commissioners, and Fire Chief Jason Revoldt will host a formal graduation ceremony today, March 13, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. to welcome the newest members of the Orlando Fire Department. The event takes place on the 9th floor of City Hall in the Fairview Room. These new hires represent the City’s ongoing commitment to enhancing emergency response capabilities and ensuring the safety of all residents. This ceremony marks the successful completion of rigorous training and the recruits' official entry into active service.

Community Grants: Pre-Application Deadline Today

The City of Orlando Housing and Community Development Department reminds local non-profit organizations that the pre-application deadline for Program Year 2026 federal funding is today, Friday, March 13, 2026. Applications for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and the Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) must be submitted via ZoomGrants by 5:00 p.m. These funds are critical for supporting affordable housing, homelessness prevention, and public services for low- and moderate-income residents. Late submissions will not be considered for this funding cycle.

Public Involvement: Regional Transportation Survey

MetroPlan Orlando is inviting residents to participate in the Regional Transportation Survey, open through April 10, 2026. This 12-minute survey allows community members to share their experiences regarding safety, technology, and public transit across Orange, Osceola, and Seminole counties. Public feedback gathered during this period will directly inform future infrastructure projects and the 2026-2030 Consolidated Plan.

Traffic Alert: Major Active Road Closures

The City of Orlando has several infrastructure projects impacting traffic flow this week. Motorists are advised to plan for extra travel time in the following areas:

• Magnolia Avenue: Remains fully closed between Livingston Street and Jefferson Street for the Magnolia Avenue Improvement Project through March 24.
• Fern Creek Avenue: Closed between Livingston Street and Concord Street for sanitary project segments. This closure is scheduled to conclude on March 16.
• Garden Plaza: Closed from Weber Street to Illinois Street for construction through April 30.
• Putnam Avenue: Southbound lanes remain closed between Amelia Street and Federal Street for the Beacon at Creative Village project.