Newsroom

City Hall Closed for Holiday

Detour routes are provided for both bridge segments during the project

Two sections of 6th Street in Racine will be closed to traffic starting Monday, July 21, as part of a bridge deck reconstruction project.

Recent Changes to the Taste and Odor of Your Drinking Water

Dear Customers of Racine Water Utility,

You may have noticed a change in the taste and odor (musty, earthy, mildewy, swampy) coming from your drinking water taps over the past few days. This is due to a Lake Michigan seasonal phenomenon brought on by increased water temperatures along with the increase in natural organic matter. Typically, we’ve seen this occur later in summer and adjusted our treatment process then to avoid any taste and odor issues.

The water treatment plant increased the dosage of potassium permanganate, an oxidizer used to combat taste and odor issues, on July 15, 2025, in response to numerous concerns from our customers. We will continue to monitor the taste and odor from Lake Michigan and adjust treatment as necessary.

We have been testing water leaving the plant and sampled in the distribution system as well. Based on all bacteriological and wet chemistry test results, there is no indication that water safety is compromised or the water is unsafe for consumption. We will continue to conduct our routine monitoring of the treatment process and sample throughout the distribution system.

If the issue persists at your location, please contact the Water Utility Laboratory 262-636-9441 or the Plant Superintendent at 262-636-9534.

We appreciate your understanding of this temporarily unaesthetically pleasing water. We are continually working to provide safe water to the community.

Sincerely,

Racine Water Utility

Download this letter here

Cooling Centers are available to anyone who needs a safe, public space to cool off during extreme heat in the summer. Be sure to call ahead to confirm their hours.

Cooling Center List

Those most at risk of getting sick from the high temperatures and humidity are older adults, those who work or exercise outdoors, infants and children, people without housing, and those with a chronic medical condition.

City Hall – Closed for Holiday

City Hall will close on Friday July 4th due to the Independence Day Holiday. This includes city offices under this administration in the Annex.

From all of us at the City of Racine, have an enjoyable holiday!

City of Racine to Launch Island ParkCar Seat Installation by Appointment Only Offered by: Racine Fire Department Availability: Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Occasional after-hours appointments may be available.   How to Schedule Submit an email request to schedule your appointment. A certified car seat technician will contact you. No walk-ins allowed. What to Bring Your car seat manual. Your vehicle manual. Your child, if possible. Appointment Duration Each session lasts 30–40 minutes. Includes seat inspection, installation, and safety education.   Health Notice If anyone in your household is sick, please reschedule.   Expecting Parents Schedule at least 1 month before your due date.   Wisconsin Car Seat Laws Rear-facing seat: Until at least age 1 and 20 lbs. Forward-facing seat: Until at least age 4 and 40 lbs. Booster seat: Age 4 to 8, or until 80 lbs or 4’9″. Back seat: Children should ride in the back until at least age 13. More Info Visit Safe Kids Wisconsin or Children’s Wisconsin for additional resources and installation sites. More Beer Garden

Grand Opening Celebration This Weekend – Ribbon Cutting Set for Friday, June 20

The City of Racine’s Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services (PRCS) Department, in partnership with Perspective Brewing, invites residents and visitors to celebrate the Grand Opening of the Island ParkCar Seat Installation by Appointment Only Offered by: Racine Fire Department Availability: Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Occasional after-hours appointments may be available.   How to Schedule Submit an email request to schedule your appointment. A certified car seat technician will contact you. No walk-ins allowed. What to Bring Your car seat manual. Your vehicle manual. Your child, if possible. Appointment Duration Each session lasts 30–40 minutes. Includes seat inspection, installation, and safety education.   Health Notice If anyone in your household is sick, please reschedule.   Expecting Parents Schedule at least 1 month before your due date.   Wisconsin Car Seat Laws Rear-facing seat: Until at least age 1 and 20 lbs. Forward-facing seat: Until at least age 4 and 40 lbs. Booster seat: Age 4 to 8, or until 80 lbs or 4’9″. Back seat: Children should ride in the back until at least age 13. More Info Visit Safe Kids Wisconsin or Children’s Wisconsin for additional resources and installation sites. More Beer Garden, a pop-up beer garden series launching this weekend at Island ParkCar Seat Installation by Appointment Only Offered by: Racine Fire Department Availability: Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Occasional after-hours appointments may be available.   How to Schedule Submit an email request to schedule your appointment. A certified car seat technician will contact you. No walk-ins allowed. What to Bring Your car seat manual. Your vehicle manual. Your child, if possible. Appointment Duration Each session lasts 30–40 minutes. Includes seat inspection, installation, and safety education.   Health Notice If anyone in your household is sick, please reschedule.   Expecting Parents Schedule at least 1 month before your due date.   Wisconsin Car Seat Laws Rear-facing seat: Until at least age 1 and 20 lbs. Forward-facing seat: Until at least age 4 and 40 lbs. Booster seat: Age 4 to 8, or until 80 lbs or 4’9″. Back seat: Children should ride in the back until at least age 13. More Info Visit Safe Kids Wisconsin or Children’s Wisconsin for additional resources and installation sites. More.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place at 5:00 PM on Friday, June 20, led by Racine District 14 Alder Marlo Harmon. The evening will feature live music by Maddie Jay, local food trucks, and free giveaways while supplies last.

The City of Racine’s Department of Public Works is notifying residents that in observance of the Independence Day Holiday, there will be no solid waste or recycling collection on Friday, July 4, 2025.

As a result, collection services will rotate forward for all residents, following the 2025 collection calendar. Residents are encouraged to review the calendar closely to confirm their adjusted pickup day.

To ensure collection, carts must be placed at the curb or alley line by 7:00 a.m. on your designated day—even if that day has changed due to the holiday rotation.

If you have questions or need assistance determining your updated schedule, please contact the Department of Customer Service at 262-636-9171. You can also download the “Racine Recycles” app, available for both Android and iOS devices, to receive schedule alerts, set reminders, and look up accepted items.

We appreciate your cooperation as we work to maintain timely and efficient waste and recycling services for the community.

Please see the below document for information on new collection dates.

Independence Day Collection Schedule

Established in 2024, the City of Racine recognizes Juneteenth as a non-working holiday.

City Hall will close on Thursday, June 19th due to the Juneteenth Freedom holiday. This includes city offices under this administration in the Annex.

From all of us at the City of Racine, have an enjoyable holiday!

City Hall Elevator Out of Service for Repairs

Beginning Monday, June 2, the elevator at City Hall will be out of service for approximately two months due to scheduled repairs.

If you have business at City Hall and have accessibility needs, please call 262-636-9171 to arrange for curbside service or assistance at the garden level.

To ensure ADA compliance, Common Council and Standing Committee meetings, including Finance and Personnel, Public Safety and Licensing, and Public Works and Services, will be held at the Racine Public Library, 75 7th Street. Locations for other City board, committee, and commission meetings will be included in their respective posted agendas.

We appreciate the public’s patience and understanding as we complete this important repair project at City Hall.

The City of Racine’s Department of Public Works is notifying residents that in observance of the Juneteenth Holiday, there will be no solid waste or recycling collection on Thursday, June 19, 2025.

As a result, collection services will rotate forward for all residents, following the 2025 collection calendar. Residents are encouraged to review the calendar closely to confirm their adjusted pickup day.

To ensure collection, carts must be placed at the curb or alley line by 7:00 a.m. on your designated day—even if that day has changed due to the holiday rotation.

If you have questions or need assistance determining your updated schedule, please contact the Department of Customer Service at 262-636-9171. You can also download the “Racine Recycles” app, available for both Android and iOS devices, to receive schedule alerts, set reminders, and look up accepted items.

We appreciate your cooperation as we work to maintain timely and efficient waste and recycling services for the community.

Please see the below document for information on new collection dates.

Juneteenth Collection Schedule

Storm Debris Cleanup – What to Know

City crews are working to clean up storm damage. Here’s how to dispose of debris over the next several days:

The City of Racine’s Department of Public Works is notifying residents that in observance of the Memorial Day Holiday, there will be no solid waste or recycling collection on Monday, May 26, 2025.

As a result, collection services will rotate forward for all residents, following the 2025 collection calendar. Residents are encouraged to review the calendar closely to confirm their adjusted pickup day.

To ensure collection, carts must be placed at the curb or alley line by 7:00 a.m. on your designated day—even if that day has changed due to the holiday rotation.

If you have questions or need assistance determining your updated schedule, please contact the Department of Customer Service at 262-636-9171. You can also download the “Racine Recycles” app, available for both Android and iOS devices, to receive schedule alerts, set reminders, and look up accepted items.

We appreciate your cooperation as we work to maintain timely and efficient waste and recycling services for the community.

Please see the below document for information on new collection dates.

Memorial Day Collection 2025

Temporary Closure of State Street Lift Bridge for May 12 Structural Inspection

The City of Racine is advising residents and travelers that the State Street Lift Bridge will be closed on Monday, May 12, 2025, from 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., to accommodate a scheduled structural inspection by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT).

During this time, the bridge will be inaccessible to vehicular traffic and masted watercraft. This routine inspection is part of the state’s ongoing commitment to maintaining safe and reliable infrastructure.

Detours will be clearly marked and in place to help drivers and boaters navigate alternate routes. Commuters are encouraged to plan ahead and allow extra time for travel through the downtown area.

The City appreciates the public’s cooperation and understanding as this necessary inspection is completed.

Annual Spring Washdown Scheduled for State Street and Main Street Bridges

The City of Racine’s Department of Public Works, in collaboration with the Racine Fire Department, has scheduled the annual washdown of two downtown bridges:

State Street Bridge — Tuesday, April 29 from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Main Street Bridge — Wednesday, April 30 from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Temporary detours will be posted and in place during both operations. Residents and commuters are encouraged to plan alternate routes during those times.

The annual washdowns serve two essential purposes:

Debris Removal – Accumulated debris can offset the balance of the bridge span, impacting its proper function.

Salt Removal – Clearing residual salt from winter helps reduce long-term corrosion of the bridge’s steel structures.

These cleanings are part of the City’s ongoing commitment to maintaining safe and functional infrastructure.

City of Racine Encourages Residents to “Get Banked” for Easier Transit Boarding Experience

RYDE Racine launches bus2bankingracine.com to inform local transit riders about Bank On certified bank or credit union accounts and connect them to the WisGo powered by Umo app for a quick and easy transit boarding experience.

The City of Racine, in partnership with the national nonprofit Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund (CFE Fund), is sharing information with Racine residents about the importance of opening a banking account to make paying their fares on public transport easier. The City is launching a new website, bus2bankingracine.com, to promote contactless fare payment and connect local transit riders to reputable financial institutions in their neighborhood. Last year, Racine made riding the bus easier with the launch of contactless fare payment through the WisGo powered by Umo app, giving riders the ability to pay by phone, track arrivals in real time, plan routes with a digital map, and customize their experience through a personal account. The City’s new website shares information about reputable banking institutions and encourages riders to sync their WisGo app for easy, reloadable value on their accounts.

For residents without a bank account, or who are looking to transition to a safer, more affordable option, the site highlights the availability of accounts nationally certified as meeting the CFE Fund’s Bank On Standards. Co-created by consumer advocates, leading national nonprofit organizations, civic leaders, banking regulators, and other financial institutions, the standards designate both core and strongly recommended features that ensure low cost, no surprise fees, high functionality, and consumer safety as part of the CFE Fund’s national Bank On initiative.

“We are dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for all residents by expanding access to financial empowerment and providing a reliable, efficient transit system,” noted Racine Mayor Cory Mason. “This initiative brings those priorities together, helping residents achieve their financial goals while RYDE Racine modernizes its fare payment system ensuring residents can move easily throughout our community.”

“Using a safe, affordable bank or credit union account for contactless payment on public transit is the right moment to get safely banked,” said Jonathan Mintz, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund. “We’re thrilled to partner with Mayor Mason, the City of Racine, and RYDE Racine to make sure that all Racine residents are connected safely and usefully to the financial mainstream, including through nationally certified Bank On accounts.”

Being “unbanked” (without a checking or savings account) can drive residents to use expensive alternative financial services like check cashers and payday lenders. Unbanked families wind up paying too much for basic financial transactions and are hard-pressed to build savings and assets. The 2023 Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation National Survey of Unbanked and Underbanked Households found that the unbanked rate is 2% for households in Wisconsin, but it is higher for those who are from minority groups, low income, or face other barriers to access. The City of Racine recognizes the importance of banking access, particularly to low-income residents, and identified the introduction of contactless fare payment as a key opportunity to help residents access safe, affordable banking accounts. The new website provides a direct link for riders to view a list of Bank On certified accounts in the area and online, along with guidance on what information users may need to provide to open an account and who to contact with additional questions.

Physical fare cards and cash payment will remain available upon boarding a RYDE Racine transit bus.

Temporary Access Change to Pearl Street Yard Waste Drop-Off Site Due to Fuel Depot Construction

As the City begins construction on the municipal fuel depot, access to the Pearl Street Facility for yard waste drop-off will temporarily change to accommodate the project.

Effective Wednesday, April 30, the entrance to the yard waste drop-off site will move to the west side of Racine Street, between 8th and 9th Streets. This access change is expected to remain in place through early June, pending construction progress and weather conditions.

Regular operating hours for the Pearl Street Facility will remain unchanged during this period.

Learn more about the Pearl Street Facility and yard waste guidelines HERE.

The City of Racine will begin a significant roadway reconstruction project on Main Street from Goold Street to Melvin Avenue starting Monday, April 21, 2025. The project will be completed in multiple phases and is expected to finish by the end of October 2025. Both the Goold Street and Melvin Avenue intersections will remain open throughout construction.

Racine Residents Encouraged to Support Pollinators Through No Mow May Program

The City of Racine invites residents to participate in No Mow May, an environmental initiative that supports local pollinators by allowing grass and flowering weeds to grow freely throughout the month of May.

The program gives registered property owners a temporary exemption from the City’s noxious weed height restriction under Sec. 42-63 of the municipal code, provided they follow the ordinance’s requirements.

The City of Racine’s Department of Public Works is notifying residents that in observance of the Spring Break Holiday, there will be no solid waste or recycling collection on Friday, April 18, 2025.

As a result, collection services will rotate forward for all residents, following the 2025 collection calendar. Residents are encouraged to review the calendar closely to confirm their adjusted pickup day.

To ensure collection, carts must be placed at the curb or alley line by 7:00 a.m. on your designated day—even if that day has changed due to the holiday rotation.

If you have questions or need assistance determining your updated schedule, please contact the Department of Customer Service at 262-636-9171. You can also download the “Racine Recycles” app, available for both Android and iOS devices, to receive schedule alerts, set reminders, and look up accepted items.

We appreciate your cooperation as we work to maintain timely and efficient waste and recycling services for the community.

Please see the below document for information on new collection dates.

Spring Break Collection 2025

City of Racine Seeks Applicants for Boards, Committees, and Commissions

The City of Racine is inviting residents to take an active role in shaping local government by applying to serve on one of its many boards, committees, and commissions. These advisory bodies play a vital role in guiding city policy, programs, and services. Applications for this selection cycle will be accepted through April 11, though residents are encouraged to apply anytime for future openings.

The City of Racine is proud to have a diverse group of residents serving on its boards, commissions, and committees, helping shape policies impacting the entire community. If you are passionate about contributing your voice and expertise to an inclusive team dedicated to public service, we encourage you to apply for an open position.

Serving on a board or commission is an opportunity to use your skills and expertise to make a real impact—whether in community development, finance, public health, transportation, or another area. By participating, you’ll help shape policies, improve infrastructure, and guide Racine’s future. Plus, you’ll connect with fellow residents, elected officials, and professionals who share a commitment to bettering our community.

Positions are open to City of Racine residents, though some vacancies require specific professional qualifications, such as expertise in law, architecture, real estate, or other specialized fields.

The City of Racine will begin a significant roadway reconstruction project on Main Street from Goold Street to Melvin Avenue starting Monday, April 21, 2025. The project will be completed in multiple phases and is expected to finish by the end of October 2025. Both the Goold Street and Melvin Avenue intersections will remain open throughout construction.

Please see the link to view the April 1, 2025, Election Results, which will be posted as soon as they are available.

Election Results

With spring break approaching, the City of Racine Public Health Department is advising everyone, especially travelers, to double-check their vaccination records to ensure they are protected against measles.

Measles is an extremely contagious virus that can spread rapidly through coughing, sneezing, and even just being in the same area as an infected person. Travelers who are unvaccinated can easily contract the virus and bring it back to their communities, making them a potential source of outbreaks.

According to the latest data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 375 cases of measles have been diagnosed in the United States so far in 2025. This already exceeds the total number of US measles cases in 2024. Significant outbreaks are affecting parts of Texas and New Mexico, with additional cases reported in at least 15 other states. A staggering 90% of those affected have either not been vaccinated or have an unknown vaccination history.

“Unvaccinated individuals traveling to or through areas affected by the virus are at risk of further spreading it, potentially bringing it back home,” said Bobbi Fergus, Deputy Public Health Administrator for the City of Racine. “If you plan to travel for spring break, especially to popular destinations with outbreaks, take a moment to check your vaccination status. If you’re not up to date, getting vaccinated now can help protect your health and the health of those around you.”

The MMR (Measles-Mumps-Rubella) vaccine offers strong protection against measles, preventing serious complications. It’s safe, effective, and provides long-lasting immunity. The two-dose series of the MMR vaccine is 97% effective in preventing measles, and receiving one dose of the vaccine can be as much as 93% effective.

In the City of Racine, approximately 87% of K-12 students had received their full MMR vaccine series for the 2023-2024 school year. For children aged 24 months, approximately 83% had received at least one dose of the MMR vaccine in 2024. To prevent the virus from spreading, public health experts aim for an MMR vaccination rate of 95% across the community.

The Wisconsin Immunization Registry (WIR) allows you to check your vaccination status. However, keep in mind that if you received your vaccines outside of Wisconsin, those records may not appear in WIR. Adults in particular might not have their childhood vaccinations documented.

It’s important to note that the measles vaccine takes time to become effective, typically about two weeks. If you’re in need of a vaccine, here’s how to schedule an appointment:

• If you have health insurance: Contact your primary care provider or a local pharmacy to arrange an appointment.
• If you are uninsured or for children covered by BadgerCare: Schedule an appointment with the Public Health Department by calling 262-636-9431.

Those who are unvaccinated and return from a trip should monitor their health closely. Symptoms of measles often start with fever, cough, runny nose, and watery eyes, followed by a rash that spreads from the head down to the body. Anyone who suspects they might have measles should stay home and contact their healthcare provider before visiting a clinic, as measles is highly contagious and precautions must be taken to protect others.

Learn more about measles and the MMR vaccine from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services: Immunizations: Measles | Wisconsin Department of Health Services

City of Racine Meetings Moving to YouTube for Live Streaming

The City of Racine is making an important change to how residents can watch live government meetings. Starting April 1, 2025, all City meetings previously streamed on Facebook will now be broadcast live on YouTube.

This transition is due to ongoing technical challenges with Facebook, including staff access issues and a recent announcement that the platform will no longer archive live-streamed content. Moving to YouTube ensures a more accessible and reliable experience, allowing anyone to watch without needing a social media account.

Past meeting videos will be transferred from Facebook to YouTube. Additionally, the City will continue posting meeting reminders on Facebook, directing viewers to the appropriate YouTube channels.

There is a current vacancy in the City of Racine’s 2nd aldermanic district. The Common Council will fill the vacancy by appointment. One person will be selected to fill the vacancy. The persons selected by the Common Council will fill the remainder of the term, which will expire April 2026.

Interested eligible persons living in the 2nd aldermanic district may submit letters of interest and resume to the Racine City Human Resource’s Office. Documents will be due to the City Human Resource’s office by 5:00 p.m. on Monday, March 24, 2025.

The Racine Common Council will make an appointment from the eligible applicants at its meeting on Wednesday, April 2, 2025.

If there are more than four eligible applicants, an Executive Committee meeting will be held on Monday, March 31, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. to narrow the list of candidates to four. The Committee of the Whole will meet on April 2, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. to interview a maximum of four interested candidates at 5:00 p.m. Candidates must be available to participate in that Committee of the Whole interview to be eligible for consideration. The Committee of the Whole will then make a recommendation to the Common Council, which make an appointment.

All eligible persons should submit a letter of interest and a resume to the Office of the Human Resources Director at human.resources@cityofracine.org or by mail or hand delivery to the Human Resources Office at City Hall, 730 Washington Avenue, Room 204, Racine, WI 53403.

City of Racine Spring Leaf Collection

March 31 – April 11, 2025

The City of Racine Department of Public Works will conduct Spring Leaf Collection beginning Monday, March 31, 2025, through Friday, April 11, 2025.

During this time, residents may place leaves, yard waste, and bundled branches into the street gutters following the guidelines below.

City of Racine Declares Snow Emergency Ahead of Weekend Storm

With a significant snowstorm expected for the second time this week, the City of Racine’s Department of Public Works (DPW) is once again mobilizing to ensure roads are cleared as efficiently and safely as possible.

Snow Emergency in Effect: What You Need to Know About Parking

With snow falling and more on the way, the City of Racine declared a Snow Emergency from noon today (2/12) through noon tomorrow (2/13) to help keep roads safe and clear. Residents are urged to follow emergency parking rules to avoid fines and towing while allowing plow crews to do their work efficiently.

DPW Prepares for Impending Snowstorm with Tiered Snow Removal Plan

With a snowstorm expected midweek, the Commissioner of Public Works declared a snow emergency beginning noon on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, through noon on Thursday, February 13, 2025.

The City of Racine’s Department of Public Works (DPW) is mobilizing to ensure roads are cleared as efficiently and safely as possible.

To download the file, please click on the following link:

Inclement Weather Suspension 01.21.25

Friendly reminder, in observance of MLK Jr. Day there will be no collections done January 20, 2025.