Community Update: Vital Transit, Health, and Infrastructure Notices for Feb. 20

Public Health Alert: Rising Measles and Influenza Activity

The County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency has issued an urgent advisory following a notable increase in measles activity across the state. As of late this week, 19 cases have been confirmed in California, with several linked to recent visits to popular regional theme parks. Local healthcare providers are instructed to maintain high clinical suspicion for patients presenting with febrile rash and to immediately implement airborne precautions. San Diego residents are urged to verify their vaccination status, especially those planning domestic or international travel.

Additionally, the latest regional surveillance data indicates a sharp rise in seasonal influenza. Over the last two weeks, reported cases in San Diego County have increased by nearly 500, with both Influenza A and the more contagious Influenza B strains currently in circulation. Health officials remind the public that it is not too late to receive a flu shot, as the season is expected to persist through the spring.

Transportation Update: I-5 Night Closures and Weekend Rail Shutdown

Caltrans District 11 has announced significant roadwork affecting commuters this evening. Beginning Friday, February 20, 2026, northbound Interstate 5 lanes near the Gilman Drive and La Jolla Colony Drive interchange will be subject to evening closures for infrastructure maintenance. These closures are scheduled to continue through Saturday night.

• NCTD Rail Shutdown Alert: The North County Transit District (NCTD) will suspend all COASTER rail service starting at 12:30 a.m. on Saturday, February 21, and continuing through Sunday. This weekend shutdown is required for routine maintenance and critical track upgrades. Residents near the tracks are advised that while passenger service is suspended, construction vehicles and test trains will remain active.
• I-805 Infrastructure Overhaul: Long-term rehabilitation work continues on I-805. Drivers should expect intermittent ramp shutdowns and lane reductions throughout the South Bay corridor as part of a $235 million infrastructure improvement project.

City Governance: SANDAG Meetings and Fee Transparency Proposals

The San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) has updated its schedule for today. The Transportation Committee is set to convene for its regular session at 9:00 a.m. at the San Diego County Administration Center. However, the Public Safety Committee meeting previously scheduled for 1:00 p.m. today has been officially canceled. All other subcommittee meetings remain as scheduled unless otherwise posted.

In City Hall news, Councilmember Raul Campillo has formally introduced a proposal aimed at increasing transparency regarding municipal fees. The plan, which received its first public briefing today, seeks to require comprehensive economic analysis and cost-of-service studies before any new property-related fees are put before voters. This follows community concerns regarding recent adjustments to residential service rates.

Public Notice: Consumer Safety and Land Use

A formal 60-day notice of intent to sue has been served to the City of San Diego and various retailers under Proposition 65. The notice alleges failure to provide adequate warnings regarding toxic chemical exposure in certain crystallized ginger products distributed regionally. Furthermore, residents in the Ocean Beach area are reminded of an upcoming public hearing on February 24 regarding the future of the local Historic District and proposed zoning amendments for the community plan area.