County delays nonessential services until 10 a.m. after icy roads

Los Alamos County Manager Anne Laurent announced a delayed start of 10:00 a.m. for all nonessential county services and facilities on Jan. 9 after winter weather created icy road conditions across the area. The move aimed to reduce travel risk for staff and residents and to allow crews extra time to treat streets and parking areas.

Not all operations paused for the delay. Atomic City Transit began service with adjusted start times; riders were encouraged to check ACTracker for route updates and timing changes. Environmental Services maintained some regular operations that day, continuing scheduled refuse and recycling collection so households relying on weekly pickup were not left waiting. However, early-morning recreation programming was cancelled, and Aquatic Center activities before 10:00 a.m. were suspended, affecting lap swim, lessons, and other morning users.

The announcement stressed that program and facility hours could vary and advised residents to confirm specific schedules on official County pages. County officials warned that additional adjustments might be necessary as conditions evolved, and they urged patience as crews worked to keep essential services running safely.

For residents, the disruption was a reminder that even routine days can shift quickly in winter. Commuters who rely on county services or Atomic City Transit needed to check schedules before heading out, and families with morning recreation plans or childcare tied to facility hours had to alter arrangements. Refuse and recycling pickups that remained on schedule helped limit immediate household disruptions, but any later changes could affect collection timing for some neighborhoods.

The delay also highlighted how interconnected county operations are with everyday life in Los Alamos. From lab-affiliated commuters and school drop-offs to seniors who depend on transit and morning programs, even a single-hour delay can ripple through appointments, work shifts, and caregiving plans. The county’s decision balanced safety with continuity by keeping key services moving while trimming exposure to hazardous roads.

Our two cents? If icy weather threatens your plans, check ACTracker and the county website before you leave and give yourself extra travel time. That small step can keep your commute smoother and help you avoid last-minute surprises.