Houston City Bulletin: Essential Public Notices for January 29, 2026

Public Service Announcement: Early Voting for Congressional District 18

The Harris County Clerk’s Office has issued a reminder to all eligible voters within Congressional District 18 regarding the ongoing Special Runoff Election. For Thursday, January 29, 2026, early voting centers will be operational from 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. local time. Residents are encouraged to visit the main election headquarters at 15600 Morales Road or other designated county-wide vote centers to cast their ballots ahead of the final election day on Saturday, January 31. Registered voters should bring a valid form of photo identification and may review sample ballots on the official Harris Votes website.

Public Health Advisory: Measles Vigilance and Flu Surge

The Houston Health Department (HHD) continues to monitor a recent uptick in respiratory and viral illnesses across the Bayou City. Health officials have confirmed three cases of measles within the region since mid-2025, with the most recent case involving an unvaccinated infant exposed during international travel. HHD is actively investigating potential exposure sites to prevent further transmission. Additionally, the department reports a sharp rise in seasonal flu activity following recent holiday travel. Residents are advised of the following precautions:

• Ensure all family members are up to date on MMR and annual flu vaccinations.
• Contact healthcare providers via telephone prior to visiting a clinic if symptoms such as high fever or distinct rashes appear.
• Practice rigorous hand hygiene and stay home if feeling unwell to protect vulnerable populations.

Infrastructure Notice: I-10 Elevation and Drainage Fund Updates

Houston Public Works and TxDOT have provided updates on major infrastructure milestones for early 2026. The I-10 White Oak Bayou elevation project remains in a highly disruptive phase, with significant lane closures and bridge work expected to continue through mid-year. This $400 million project is designed to raise the freeway and improve drainage capacity to mitigate flood risks. Separately, the City Council has authorized the use of $30 million from the Storm Water Fund for neighborhood stabilization efforts. While primarily aimed at drainage maintenance, these funds will support the removal of blighted structures identified as contributing to illegal dumping and local pipe blockages.

Federal Service Notice: Social Security Office Operations

The Social Security Administration has announced that for Thursday, January 29, 2026, several regional hearing offices will transition to telephone-only service. There will be no in-person services available at these specific locations today. Members of the public with scheduled in-person or video teleconference hearings will be contacted directly to reschedule. General assistance remains available via the national toll-free number or the official agency website.

Public Safety: CDC Screwworm Advisory

Houstonians are advised of a new nationwide health advisory from the CDC concerning the New World screwworm. Following a spike in cases in the Mexican state of Tamaulipas, just south of the Texas border, residents are urged to monitor livestock and pets for parasitic larvae. Humans with open wounds should keep them covered and seek medical attention if they notice unusual swelling or infection symptoms. Do not attempt to remove larvae manually, as this can facilitate the spread of the pest.