UPDATE: Howard County has just announced essential service adjustments and facility closures for New Year’s Day, January 1, 2024. As residents prepare for celebrations, several key county operations will be temporarily halted, impacting daily routines.
On New Year’s Day, government offices, community centers, and local courts will close their doors. Specific locations affected include the Gary J. Arthur, North Laurel, and Roger Carter Community Centers, which will close early on December 31 at 5:00 p.m., while the Baltimore & Ohio Ellicott City Station Museum will close even earlier at 3:00 p.m. This schedule adjustment is crucial for residents planning their holiday outings.
Residents should also note that waste collection services will be suspended on January 1st. Instead, services will follow a “slide” schedule, meaning Thursday collections will shift to Friday, and Friday’s to Saturday.
Despite the celebrations, essential services like the 9-1-1 Center, Police, and Fire departments will remain fully operational, ensuring community safety during the holiday. Residents are reminded to call 9-1-1 for emergencies and 410-313-2200 for non-urgent inquiries.
Public transportation will not operate on New Year’s Day, with the Regional Transportation Agency (RTA) buses halting services. For more information on the RTA schedule, residents can call 1-800-270-9553 or visit their website. Additionally, parking fees will not be enforced on January 1, providing a small relief for those traveling.
County operations will resume on January 2, marked as an Energy Saving Day, reflecting a commitment to sustainability even as services return to normal.
For all the latest updates and a detailed list of closures, visit the Howard County Government’s official website. Stay informed and plan accordingly as the community rings in the New Year!
