Public Notice: Official City Board Meetings, Health Alerts, and Traffic Impacts

Municipal Governance and Board Sessions

The City of Orlando has several official committee and board meetings scheduled for Wednesday, March 18, 2026. These sessions are essential for municipal oversight and the advancement of local development projects. Residents and interested parties should take note of the following sessions:

• Firefighter's Pension Board: This board will hold an in-person meeting at City Hall to discuss matters related to the administration of retirement benefits for the city's fire department personnel.
• DTO Façade Program Grant Review Committee: A virtual meeting is scheduled for today to evaluate grant applications aimed at enhancing the visual appeal of downtown storefronts. These grants support small business owners in improving their physical presence in the downtown core.

Public Health and Environmental Alerts

The Streets and Stormwater Division maintains an active "Lake Alert" for Turkey Lake following a sanitary sewage overflow reported earlier this week. Approximately 2,800 gallons of sewage entered the storm drain system due to a blockage of fats, oils, and grease. The City advises all residents and visitors to cease water contact activities, including swimming, boating, and irrigation, in Turkey Lake until further notice. Warning signs are currently posted, and water quality testing for E. coli counts is ongoing.

Additionally, the Florida Department of Health in Orange County continues to monitor several local bodies of water for harmful blue-green algae. Health cautions remain active for Lake Killarney, Lake Bessie, and Lake Gatlin. Residents should avoid contact with water where algae blooms are visible, as these toxins can be harmful to humans and pets. Furthermore, health officials are tracking the first reported case of measles in Central Florida this year, though a general public advisory has not been formally issued at this time.

Major Road Closures and Infrastructure Updates

Significant traffic disruptions are expected today as crews begin the scheduled demolition of the former Pulse nightclub building. This operation is a pivotal step in the city's plan to develop a permanent memorial at the site. Motorists should expect heavy equipment and localized lane shifts in the immediate vicinity throughout the day.

Ongoing infrastructure projects also necessitate the following active road closures:

• Magnolia Avenue: Remains closed between Livingston Street and Jefferson Street for the Magnolia Avenue Improvement Project through March 24.
• Summerlin Avenue: A full closure is in effect between Livingston Street and Ridgewood Street, expected to last until March 31.
• Utility and Sewer Rehabilitation: Recent closures have commenced on Clay Avenue (between Bay Run Street and Pelham Road) and Fern Creek Avenue (between Robinson Street and Harwood Street) for essential underground utility work.

Community Reminders

The City of Orlando reminds local non-profit organizations that while the pre-application window has closed, the final deadline for Program Year 2026 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) applications is Friday, March 27, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. These federal funds are dedicated to supporting public services and facilities for low- and moderate-income residents.