City Notices Roundup: Public Health Advisories, Traffic Alerts, and Legislative Updates

Public Health Advisory: Measles Exposure at John Glenn Airport

The Ohio Department of Health has issued an official advisory following a confirmed measles exposure at John Glenn Columbus International Airport. Officials identified the exposure window as occurring between 6:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. on February 18, 2026. Individuals who were present at the airport during these hours are urged to monitor themselves for symptoms—including high fever, cough, and a characteristic rash—through March 11, 2026.

This advisory comes amid a reported spike in measles cases across the state, with nine cases confirmed in the first two months of 2026. Health officials recommend that residents verify their vaccination status and contact a healthcare provider if they suspect exposure. Those experiencing symptoms are encouraged to call ahead before visiting a clinic to prevent further spread.

Traffic and Infrastructure: Road Closures and Lane Restrictions

The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) and the City of Columbus have announced several active traffic impacts for Thursday, February 26, 2026:

• I-71 Southbound Ramp: Expect overnight lane restrictions on the ramp from I-71 southbound to I-270 westbound on the city's north side. Work is scheduled to take place from 7:00 p.m. tonight until 5:00 a.m. Friday morning.
• 17th Avenue Closure: 17th Avenue remains closed between Clara Avenue and Dora Avenue for ongoing Expo 2050 construction. This closure is expected to persist through April 2026.
• I-70 Pavement Reconstruction: Westbound traffic on I-70 continues to be shifted to the eastbound side of the roadway as part of long-term pavement work. Motorists should maintain alertness for changing traffic patterns.
• Weber Road Emergency: Following emergency railroad repairs earlier this week, drivers are advised to continue using Hudson Street or East North Broadway as alternate routes near the I-71 corridor until all crossing safety checks are finalized.

City Council Update: Immigration and Crisis Response

Following the session on February 23, 2026, several new ordinances have been moved into active status. Notably, City Council passed legislation aimed at restricting federal immigration enforcement within city limits. New rules prohibit city employees from holding secondary employment with ICE and prevent the use of city property for immigration enforcement without specific council approval.

Additionally, Council has affirmed the sufficiency of over 30,000 signatures for a community-driven charter amendment. This proposal seeks to create a specialized response system for 911 calls involving mental health crises and overdoses, potentially placing the initiative on the upcoming ballot for Columbus voters.

Public Services: Trash Collection Schedule

The City of Columbus Department of Public Service confirms that residential trash, recycling, and yard waste collection will follow a normal schedule today, Thursday, February 26. Residents are reminded to have their containers at the curb by 6:00 a.m. to ensure pickup.