The most significant change residents should know is the start of multiple road closures for maintenance across Longview this week. Northbound I-5 lane and Iowa Street on-ramp closures begin Saturday, Aug. 15, for work between Samish Way and Iowa Street, with detours in place. Simultaneously, US 97 near Peshastin will see single-lane closures starting Monday, Aug. 17, for fiber maintenance.
Cowlitz County Emergency Management will launch a new alert system on Aug. 15, replacing outdated notification methods for public safety alerts. This update aims to improve communication during emergencies.
The Longview Police Department has implemented new fingerprinting fees, effective immediately, for services at the department. The city also announced policy updates following a third-party investigation, including improved locker room supervision and staff training recommendations.
Longview Transit Authority will hold a public hearing on Aug. 12 to review board composition, and RiverCities Transit has added a new ADA-compliant bus stop at 12th & Maple to improve access to CAP for Route 30 and 33 riders.
Cowlitz County has expanded its burn ban, prohibiting all recreational fires and campfires in unincorporated areas effective immediately. Water main work on 10th Ave will require closures on Aug. 6-7, with residents advised to prepare for disruptions.
What to watch next: The Aug. 12 public hearing on Cowlitz Transit Authority board structure and the full implementation of the new alert system on Aug. 15.