City Service Alert: Rescheduled Trash Collection and Winter Safety Advisories
Rescheduled Trash and Recycling Collection
Due to recent winter weather conditions and poor road conditions earlier this week, the Oklahoma City Utilities Department has officially moved the trash and recycling collection originally scheduled for Tuesday, January 27, to today, Saturday, January 31. Collection drivers are working extra hours to clear the backlog caused by snow-covered residential streets. Residents are advised to have their carts at the curb by 5:00 AM, as routes are starting one hour earlier than usual. The city requests that residents keep vehicles off the street where possible to allow collection crews and snow plows to navigate neighborhoods safely.
Public Health and SoonerCare Deadlines
Today marks a critical deadline for Oklahoma Health Care Authority (OHCA) providers. Renewals for healthcare providers have been extended through January 31, 2026, to ensure no disruption in services for SoonerCare and SoonerSelect members. Additionally, new state regulations regarding medical marijuana oversight are now in full effect. As of this month, physicians issuing medical marijuana recommendations must be registered with the state and have completed the required safety and compliance training. Patients are encouraged to verify that their recommending physician meets these new 2026 standards.
Traffic and Infrastructure Projects
Motorists should be aware of several ongoing highway projects affecting travel across the metro area this weekend:
- I-240 and I-35 Interchange: Lane narrowing and intermittent frontage road closures continue as part of a multi-phase improvement project scheduled to last through 2026.
- N.E. 23rd Street (SH-66): Traffic remains narrowed to one lane in each direction between N. Lee Avenue and N. Harvey Avenue for city construction.
- I-44/Airport Road: Narrowed lanes and ramp closures are active at the SH-152 interchange through the spring.
- S.E. 4th Street (Moore): A total closure remains in effect between Broadway Avenue and Tower Drive for a railroad bridge project.
Winter Safety and Public Service Notices
The Emergency Medical Services Authority (EMSA) continues to urge residents to take precautions during this cold snap. Following several reports of carbon monoxide incidents and cold-exposure emergencies this week, officials recommend checking home heating equipment and ensuring generators are never operated indoors. Looking ahead, the City of Oklahoma City has announced a temporary suspension of Streetcar service for Sunday, February 1. Service will be replaced by a bus shuttle to accommodate construction work related to the new downtown arena project. Finally, residents are reminded that the Oklahoma City Mayoral Election is scheduled for February 10, 2026. Registered voters should confirm their polling locations via the State Election Board website.