Monday, February 1, 2021

Dear Baltimore,

As we continue to weather this snowstorm, I want to update you on the changes you can expect to see regarding city operations today. All updates are applicable through Monday, February 1, 2021. 

COVID-19 Testing Sites

Testing sites will make every attempt to remain open but may need to close due to adverse weather conditions. The Baltimore City Health Department’s testing site at the Baltimore Convention Center will be CLOSED on Monday, February 1st. The Zeta Center will be CLOSED on Tuesday, February 2 due to inclement weather. For status updates please visit coronavirus.baltimorecity.gov/testing or follow the Baltimore City Health Department’s social media accounts for updates before coming to a testing site.

Winter Shelters

In addition to the City’s snow operations, a winter shelter declaration has been issued in Baltimore City which will remain in effect until 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 3rd.  Residents in need of shelter should call 443-984-9540 or dial 211.  The transportation schedule, along with additional details can be found on the Mayor’s Office of Homeless Services website at: Winter Shelter | Mayor's Office of Homeless Services (baltimorecity.gov).

Liberal Leave

Liberal leave is in effect for non-essential employees and employees who are teleworking.  Employees must follow departmental call-in procedures and must get permission from their immediate supervisor or designee prior to using liberal leave. Employees will be required to use accumulated vacation, personal leave, or compensatory time, or authorized leave without pay. 

For updated information regarding liberal leave, please visit the Baltimore City Office of the Labor Commissioner on Facebook, or call the City of Baltimore's dedicated hotline for employees at (410) 361-9200.

School Closures

In-person learning for Baltimore City Public Schools will shift to virtual learning Monday, February 1. Meal sites will be closed for the duration of the day. For more information and live updates, please visit www.facebook.com/baltcityschools/.

Department of Public Works (DPW) Services

The following DPW facilities will be closed today, Monday, February 1, 2021. 

•  Sisson Street Citizen Drop-Off Center @ 2840 Sisson Street
• Citizens’ Convenience Drop-Off Center@ 701 Reedbird Avenue 
• Citizens’ Convenience Drop-Off Center @ 6101 Bowley’s Lane 

MTA Service 

MDOT MTA Commuter Bus service for all routes are cancelled. For more service updates, visit https://mta.maryland.gov/service-alerts.

Residents are encouraged to plan ahead and be prepared for the Monday morning commute, as mixed precipitation may cause hazardous driving conditions.  Roadways may become slick, especially on bridges, ramps and overpasses, and along infrequently traveled roadways.  Motorists who must travel are strongly advised to allow additional commute time, drive at reduced speeds and increase stopping distance for everyone’s safety.  Drivers are also reminded not to pass working snow plows and to allow plenty of following distance so that plow drivers have plenty of room to maneuver.

While we spent Sunday and this morning plowing and treating all city roads, taking proactive steps to improve our operations each hour, we can expect freezing conditions. It is absolutely imperative that you remain home for your safety and to allow our crews to do their jobs. 

As always, please continue to reference my social media platforms for the most up to date information regarding city services. We will get through this storm together!

Stay warm and stay safe Baltimore.

In Service,

Mayor Brandon M. Scott