Altoona

Pennsylvania

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Mayor's Newsletter - February 2026

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From the Desk of Mayor Matt Pacifico

The City of Altoona is highlighting "Altoona Proud" for February 2026, focusing on community health, safety, and history.

American Heart Month

February is designated as American Heart Month to raise awareness about cardiovascular disease, which remains the leading cause of death in the United States.

  • Key Statistics: A heart attack occurs approximately every 40 seconds; 20% of these are "silent," meaning damage occurs without the person being aware.
  • Risk Factors: Beyond family history, high blood pressure, and smoking, risks include diets high in sodium/trans fats, lack of physical activity, and insufficient sleep.
  • CPR Training: The newsletter emphasizes the importance of CPR training, noting that classes are often free and available throughout the community.
  • National Go Red for Women Day: On Friday, February 6th, 2026, residents are encouraged to wear red to raise awareness. Women are at a higher risk of death from heart disease than men.
  • Resources: For more information, visit www. cdc. gov/heart-disease, www. heart. org, or www. mayoclinic. org/hearthealth.

Snow and Ice Removal

The Public Works Highway Department is operating 24-hour shifts to keep roads safe. The priority order for plowing is:

  1. Major arteries, school routes, emergency/mass transit routes.
  2. Secondary routes (minor arteries and neighborhood connectors).
  3. Alleys serving as access points for emergency services, parks, walkways, and bus routes.

Resident Responsibilities:

  • Clear sidewalks of snow and ice within 24 hours after a storm.
  • Do not shovel snow into the streets.
  • Move vehicles to driveways or secondary roads if possible; otherwise, park close to the curb.
  • Pull in vehicle side mirrors to prevent damage.
  • Park in locations that allow easy access for plows.
  • Wait for plowing to be completed before cleaning driveways or sidewalks to avoid re-shoveling.
  • Weather Info: Visit www. altoonapa. gov for winter weather updates.

15th Annual Community Classic Dinner and Auction

  • Date: Saturday, February 28th, 2026.
  • Location: The Bavarian Hall, 112 S. 13th Street, Altoona.
  • Time: Doors open at 4:00 PM; event begins at 5:00 PM.
  • Guest Speaker: Chris Hoke, former Pittsburgh Steelers defensive lineman (11-year career).
  • Award: The 2026 Respected Citizen Award will be presented to Scott Filler.
  • Activities: Silent auction packages, special raffles, and basket raffles from local businesses.
  • Cost: Tickets are $50.
  • Where to Buy: CBRC office (2101 Fifth Avenue, Altoona) or Grandview Meats (1544 Pleasant Valley Boulevard, Altoona).
  • Proceeds: Funds go to the CBRC scholarship fund and local park projects. The Central Blair Recreation and Park Commission (CBRC) manages 30 parks, ball fields, a spray park, 3 community centers, and 6 recreation centers.

African American History Month

February is observed as African American History Month, chosen to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln (Feb 12) and Frederick Douglass (Feb 14).

  • Local History: Altoona had many Underground Railroad locations during the Civil War. One station was Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church, the oldest and largest African American church in Altoona (serving since 1839).
  • Learn More: Visit the Blair County African American Heritage Project on Facebook.

2026 Dog Licenses

All dogs 12 weeks or older within Altoona City limits must be licensed.

  • Annual License: $6–$12. Available at the City of Altoona Finance Office (1301 12th Street, Suite 104), Fiore True Value Hardware (5514 6th Avenue), or Central PA Humane Society (1837 E. Pleasant Valley Blvd).
  • Lifetime License: $36–$72 (requires microchip or tattoo). Available only at City Hall.
  • Note: Costs vary based on owner age and whether the dog is spayed/neutered.

New Pokémon Club at Altoona Area Public Library

  • Target Audience: Teens ages 12–18.
  • Event: First Pokémon Trading Card Game session.
  • Date/Time: February 25th, 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM.
  • Location: First floor of the library at the back tables.
  • Details: No pre-registration required. Starter decks are available to borrow, and instructions will be provided.
  • Info: Visit www. facebook. com/altoonalibrary for more library events.

Learn About Your City: Community Development

The Community Development Department handles planning, housing, and federal grants (CDBG and HOME).

  • Services: Distributes funding for homeowner housing rehab (roofs, kitchens, insulation), creates mapping systems for property tracking, and writes grants for new buildings/restoration.
  • Blighted Properties: The department identifies blighted properties for rehabilitation or demolition. In the past year, 35 properties were demolished to make way for better use of space and affordable housing.
  • Current Project: The Redevelopment Authority is building three single-family homes between 14th Avenue and 20th Street. These will be sold to middle-income families and first-time homebuyers.
  • Website: www. altoonapa. gov
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