Public Notice: Holiday Service Updates and Health Advisories for January 19, 2026
Official Observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day
The City of St. Louis is officially observing Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day today, Monday, January 19, 2026. In honor of this federal holiday, all non-essential municipal offices, including St. Louis City Hall, the Board of Election Commissioners, and both the 22nd Circuit and Municipal Courts, are closed. Normal operations and business hours for these departments will resume on Tuesday, January 20.
Modified Refuse and Recycling Schedule
The City’s Refuse Division has announced adjustments to the residential collection schedule due to the holiday. Residents who typically receive trash collection on Mondays and Thursdays will see their first collection of the week move to Tuesday, January 20. Secondary collection days will also shift forward by one day to accommodate the holiday closure. Please note that yard waste collection remains suspended as part of the standard winter schedule and will not resume until March.
Public Health Advisory: Influenza Surge
The St. Louis Department of Health has issued an urgent health advisory following a significant spike in influenza cases across the city. Recent data indicates that Influenza A is the predominant strain, with a high concentration of cases appearing in adults aged 25 to 49. Health officials, including Director Dr. Kanika Cunningham, are strongly encouraging residents to receive their annual flu vaccination if they have not already done so. Preventative measures such as frequent handwashing and staying home when symptomatic are recommended to help mitigate the current surge.
Winter Safety and Code Blue Activation
Due to sustained low temperatures, the City’s Code Blue shelter protocols remain in effect through 9:00 AM this morning. This activation ensures that additional emergency warming centers and shelter beds are available to vulnerable residents. Citizens who encounter individuals in need of shelter should contact the Housing Helpline or the Citizen Service Bureau for assistance.
Parking and Traffic Information
In observance of the City holiday, parking meters will not be monitored today. Residents and visitors may park at city meters free of charge on Monday, January 19. However, all other parking regulations—including red zones, fire hydrants, and tow-away zones—remain strictly enforced to ensure public safety and traffic flow. Meter enforcement will resume at 8:00 AM on Tuesday.