Official Gazette: Orlando Public Notices and Community Alerts for February 20, 2026
Traffic and Transit: Immerse Festival Road Closures
The City of Orlando has issued significant traffic advisories for the downtown core effective Friday, February 20, 2026, to accommodate the annual Immerse Festival. Residents and commuters should anticipate heavy foot traffic and plan alternative routes through Sunday, February 22. Major thoroughfares subject to closure include South Orange Avenue from Central Boulevard to South Street, Pine Street from Court Street to the railroad tracks, and Church Street. Additionally, eastbound South Street at Boone Avenue will be restricted. City officials recommend utilizing the Ride DTO on-demand transit service or SunRail for those traveling into the district during the event.
Public Health Alert: Infectious Disease and Environmental Safety
The Florida Department of Health in Orange County has released a public health notification following a confirmed case of measles involving an individual who recently visited several high-traffic areas within the county. Residents are encouraged to review their immunization records and contact their healthcare provider if they exhibit symptoms such as high fever or a persistent cough. Concurrently, an environmental health advisory is in effect for local waterways and recreational basins due to elevated bacteria levels following recent heavy rainfall. Individuals are advised to avoid water contact near storm drains and creeks until at least Saturday evening.
Utilities: Precautionary Boil Water Notices
The Orlando Utilities Commission and the Florida Governmental Utility Authority (FGUA) have issued several precautionary boil water notices following a major 30-inch water main break reported late Thursday. Affected areas include segments of the downtown utility grid and the Holiday Haven system. During this advisory, all water used for drinking, cooking, making ice, or brushing teeth must be brought to a rolling boil for at least one minute. Service is expected to return to normal operation by early next week once independent laboratory testing confirms water safety.
Civic Engagement: Upcoming City Council and Public Hearings
The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Orlando City Council is set for Monday, February 23, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. Key agenda items include a public hearing for Ordinance #2025-43 concerning the annexation of property near East Michigan Street. Furthermore, the Housing and Community Development Department has posted a notice of intent to request the release of federal funds for the renovation of the Lake Davis Apartments. Public comments regarding these housing improvements are being accepted through March 1, 2026.