New Year, New Infrastructure + K9 Retirement! 🐕

Happy Tuesday, Laurel! 👋

Welcome to 2026! The new year brings fresh starts, exciting developments, and important community updates as we kick off another year in our city.

In today's edition, we're covering a major infrastructure project that will impact many neighborhoods, sharing news about a significant Secret Service facility coming to Laurel, and celebrating the retirement of a beloved K9 officer and his handler. Plus, we've got 4 events happening THIS WEEK and a whopping 23 events to look forward to through March!

From infrastructure improvements to community events to touching retirements, there's a lot happening in Laurel as we start the new year.

Let's dive in! 👇

WSSC Water is preparing to begin a large-scale sewer rehabilitation project in Laurel designed to modernize aging infrastructure and improve system reliability for decades to come. The project will rehabilitate approximately 1.7 miles of sewer pipe and 120 manholes throughout the City of Laurel, with work planned across dozens of streets, including areas in and around Oldtown Laurel.

Most of the work will use trenchless construction methods, which allow crews to repair pipes internally rather than digging them up. This approach significantly reduces road closures, property disruption, and construction noise. In locations where pipes are too deteriorated or undersized, targeted open-cut excavation will be used. Once completed, the upgrades are expected to extend the life of the sewer system by at least 50 years, reduce the risk of sewer backups, and better protect local waterways.

Construction is expected to begin in February 2026 and continue through late 2027. Residents should expect weekday daytime work, temporary traffic impacts, and advance notices before activity begins on their street. All affected roadways and surfaces will be restored after construction is complete.

Residents who want to stay informed, review presentation materials, or track future updates can visit wsscwater.com/projectmeetings, where WSSC posts project information and community meeting resources.

The United States Secret Service is planning a new operational facility on a large tract of forested land in Laurel, first reported by The Laurel Independent and confirmed through recently published documents and planning activity. The site under consideration is currently undeveloped and wooded, and the project would require significant clearing to accommodate construction.

The proposed facility is intended to support federal law-enforcement and protective operations. While specific design details and timelines have not yet been finalized publicly, the scale of the project suggests a long-term federal presence in the area. As with similar facilities elsewhere, construction and operation would likely involve federal employment, security infrastructure, and restricted access.

At the same time, the proposal has raised concerns among residents and environmental advocates, particularly regarding the loss of forested land, potential impacts on nearby neighborhoods, and the transparency of the site-selection process. Community members are beginning to ask questions about environmental review requirements, public input opportunities, traffic effects, and long-term land use implications.

As the project moves forward, additional public information and formal review processes are expected. Residents interested in the background and ongoing developments can read the original Public Notice from the US Army Corp of Engineers here.

This issue is likely to remain an active topic of discussion as more details emerge.

After years of dedicated service protecting our community, Laurel Police Department Sgt. Barry and his K9 partner Loki are hanging up their badges and heading into well-deserved retirement.

K9 units are special partnerships between officer and dog, built on years of training, trust, and teamwork. These teams serve on the front lines of law enforcement, working in narcotics detection, suspect apprehension, search and rescue, and community engagement. The bond between handler and K9 is unique—they're partners, protectors, and companions.

Sgt. Barry and Loki have served Laurel with distinction, making our community safer and representing the Laurel PD with professionalism and heart. Their retirement marks the end of an era but also the beginning of a new chapter where they can enjoy some peace and relaxation after years of service.

To Sgt. Barry: Thank you for your dedication to Laurel. Enjoy your retirement—you've earned it!

To Loki: Good boy. Enjoy those retirement treats and long naps. You've served your community with honor.

Happy retirement to both of you! 👮‍♂️🐾

Tragic news from our community. A wrong-way crash in Laurel has claimed two lives, with police investigating whether impairment played a role in the devastating accident.

This heartbreaking incident is a stark reminder of the dangers of impaired driving and the lives that are forever changed in an instant. Two families are grieving, and our community mourns with them.

If you're going out and drinking, please—plan ahead. Use a rideshare service, designate a driver, call a friend, or stay where you are. No destination is worth a life. No convenience justifies the risk.

Our thoughts are with the families affected by this tragedy.

Drive safely, Laurel. Every time, every trip. 🙏

As temperatures drop, our neighbors experiencing homelessness need our help more than ever. A Laurel shelter is actively seeking volunteers to help staff their winter facility during these cold months.

Winter is the most dangerous time for people experiencing homelessness. Cold weather shelters save lives—literally. But they can only operate with enough volunteers to staff shifts, welcome guests, and ensure the facility runs safely and smoothly.

If you have time to give—even just one shift per week—your service could make the difference between someone having a warm, safe place to sleep or facing the dangerous cold. No special skills required, just compassion and a willingness to help.

This is community care in its most direct form. Please consider volunteering if you're able.

📺 Click here to learn more and sign up!

Let's take care of each other this winter. ❄️

Our community photo spotlight continues! Each edition, we feature a photo from a Laurel resident that captures the beauty and spirit of our town.

Linda's incredible photograph takes us back to the historic blizzard of 2010, when Laurel transformed into a winter wonderland under feet of snow. This image captures a moment many of us remember—the eerie quiet of a snow-covered Main Street.

The 2010 blizzard was a major event in Laurel's recent history. Schools closed, businesses shuttered, and neighbors helped neighbors dig out. Linda's photo preserves that extraordinary time when Mother Nature reminded us she's still in charge.

📸 Congratulations, Linda! Thank you for showing us your Laurel—and for preserving this memorable moment in our city's history.

Want to be featured? Email your photos to [email protected] with the subject line "Show Us Your Laurel" and you might appear in an upcoming edition!

We're easing back into the new year! Here's what's happening around Laurel THIS WEEK (January 6-12):

Needlework Social: Knitting and Crocheting 📅 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM 📍 Laurel Branch Library, 507 7th St, Laurel, MD | Crafters, unite! This needlework social brings together knitters and crocheters for creativity, community, and cozy conversation. Whether you're working on a project or just learning, it's a wonderful way to connect with fellow fiber artists.

City of Laurel: Special Mayor & City Council Meeting 📅 5:30 PM 📍 Laurel Municipal Center, 8103 Sandy Spring Rd, Laurel, MD | The Mayor and City Council are holding a special meeting to discuss important city business. These meetings are open to the public—it's your government, your city, and your chance to stay informed about decisions that affect your community.

Teen Trip: Ice Skating at Colorburst Ice Rink (Columbia, MD) 📅 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM 📍 Departs from Robert J. DiPietro Community Center | More winter skating fun! Whether you're a pro or wobbling on your ankles, ice skating is pure winter joy. Bundle up and hit the ice at Colorburst Park!

ASL Conversation Club: Beginner 📅 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM 📍 Laurel Branch Library, 507 7th St, Laurel, MD | Learn American Sign Language! This beginner-friendly conversation club is perfect for anyone interested in ASL—whether you're learning for personal enrichment, professional development, or to communicate with deaf and hard-of-hearing community members.

Planning ahead? Here are 23 upcoming events through March—from MLK Day of Service to Black History Month to Valentine's celebrations!

City of Laurel: Mayor & City Council Meeting 📅 6:00 PM 📍 Laurel Municipal Center, 8103 Sandy Spring Rd, Laurel, MD | City Council meeting. Stay informed about local government decisions!

Teen Trip: Lucky Stripes Bowling 📅 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM 📍 Departs from Robert J. DiPietro Community Center | Laurel Parks & Rec takes teens bowling! Strike up some fun with friends at Lucky Stripes. It's the perfect midweek activity to kick off the new year.

Teen Trip: UMD Wrestling 📅 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM 📍 Departs from Robert J. DiPietro Community Center | Catch UMD wrestling in action! Laurel teens can cheer on the Terps and experience the intensity of collegiate wrestling up close.

"Save My Black Soul" Opening Night 📅 8:00 PM 📍Laurel Mill Playhouse, 508 Main St, Laurel, MD | "Save My Black Soul" is a period drama that takes place during the Golden Age of Hollywood, and follows a young, struggling African-American actor named Edward Foster. Edward, being fed up with the roles that are being offered to him in Hollywood, decides to move to New York City to create a theatre space where he can mold the next generation of up-and-coming actors of color. While his aspirations may be pure, the journey to get there will be anything but flawless.

Teen Trip: UMD Women's Gymnastics 📅 4:30 PM to 9:15 PM 📍 Departs from Robert J. DiPietro Community Center | Watch incredible athletes flip, vault, and soar! UMD Women's Gymnastics puts on a spectacular show, and Laurel teens get front-row seats.

Paint to Heal: A Creative Healing Experience 📅 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM 📍 Laurel Municipal Pool Meeting Room, 9th Street and Main Street, Laurel, MD | Use art as a pathway to healing and wellness. This creative workshop offers a therapeutic space to express yourself, process emotions, and find peace through painting. No artistic experience necessary. 🎨 Must Pre-Register!

Laurel Cats Adoption Event 📅 2:00 to 4:00 PM 📍 12020 Cherry Hill Rd, Silver Spring, MD | Looking to add a furry friend to your family? Laurel Cats hosts an adoption event featuring cats and kittens looking for their forever homes. All the love, none of the judgment—just purrs! 🐱

City of Laurel: MLK Day of Service 📅 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM 📍 Craig A. Moe Multiservice Center, 204 Fort Meade Rd, Laurel, MD | Honor Dr. King's legacy through service! To volunteer or help gather materials for care packages, email [email protected] or call 301-725-5300 Ext. 2109. It's a day on, not a day off—a perfect way to celebrate Dr. King's vision of beloved community.

Teen Trip: Winter Hike 📅 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM 📍 Departs from Robert J. DiPietro Community Center | Get outside and enjoy winter nature! This guided hike lets teens explore the beauty of Maryland's winter landscapes with friends. Dress warm and bring your sense of adventure!

Free Friday Indoor Movie: Lilo & Stitch (2025) 📅 7:00 PM 📍 Partnership Hall, 811 5th St, Laurel, MD | Ohana means family! Enjoy a FREE screening of the new Lilo & Stitch movie. Perfect for families looking for a cozy Friday night activity.

City of Laurel: Mayor & City Council Meeting 📅 6:00 PM 📍 Laurel Municipal Center, 8103 Sandy Spring Rd, Laurel, MD | City Council meeting. Stay informed about local government decisions!

Teen Trip: UMD Women's Basketball 📅 4:00 PM to 9:15 PM 📍 Departs from Robert J. DiPietro Community Center | Cheer on the Lady Terps! Laurel teens can watch UMD Women's Basketball and experience the energy of college hoops at its finest.

City of Laurel Sustainability Plan Year in Review 📅 6:00 to 8:00 PM 📍 Laurel Municipal Center, 8103 Sandy Spring Rd, Laurel, MD | Learn about Laurel's sustainability initiatives! This year-in-review session covers environmental programs, progress on sustainability goals, and plans for the future. Perfect for environmentally-conscious residents.

Adult Trip: Planet Word (18+) 📅 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM 📍 Departs from Robert J. DiPietro Community Center | Adults, take a field trip! Planet Word in DC is an interactive museum celebrating language, words, and communication. It's educational, entertaining, and perfect for word nerds of all kinds.

National Girls and Women in Sports Day 📅 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM 📍 North Laurel Community Center, 9411 Whiskey Bottom Rd, Laurel, MD | Celebrate female athletes! This event is part of a national movement celebrating the achievements and contributions of girls and women in sports. Participate in a multi-sport clinic led by expert coaches; try your hand at a variety of sports; and discover your hidden talents. All levels (and ages) welcome. Info/registration: Jamie Ponton, 410-313-1691 or [email protected]

Black History Month Book and Film Discussion 📅 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM 📍Montpelier Arts Center, 9652 Muirkirk Rd, Laurel, MD | Kick off Black History Month with meaningful discussion! This book and film discussion explores "Erasure" and "American Fiction," examining themes of identity, representation, and the African American experience

Family Valentine's Day Brunch 📅 9:00 AM 📍 The Mansion at Laurel, 13910 Laurel Lakes Ave, Laurel, MD | Celebrate love with the whole family! This special Valentine's brunch lets families share a delicious meal together before Valentine's Day. Reservations required! 💕

The Heart of Black Excellence: Honoring HBCUs Then & Now 📅 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM 📍 Laurel Branch Library, 507 7th St, Laurel, MD | Celebrate the legacy and ongoing impact of Historically Black Colleges and Universities! This special event honors HBCU excellence, culture, and contribution to education, leadership, and Black achievement in America.

A Jazzy R&B Affair 📅 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM 📍 Maryland Jockey Club, Rt. 198 & Racetrack Rd, Laurel, MD | Jazz, R&B, and romance! This sophisticated evening combines smooth music, elegant atmosphere, and Valentine's vibes. Perfect for date night or celebrating with friends.

Annual Black History Month Exhibition: Public Reception 📅 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM📍 Montpelier Arts Center, 9652 Muirkirk Rd, Laurel, MD | Celebrate Black history through art! This annual exhibition features works highlighting African American heritage, culture, and contributions. The public reception offers a chance to meet artists and explore powerful visual storytelling.

Free Friday Indoor Movie: Elio (2025) 📅 7:00 PM 📍 Partnership Hall, 811 5th St, Laurel, MD | Free movie night returns! Enjoy Pixar's "Elio" (2025) with family and friends. Popcorn optional but recommended!

Thanks for reading this week’s edition and Happy New Year, Laurel! As we kick off 2026, we're looking forward to infrastructure improvements that will serve our community for decades, potential federal investments that bring jobs and opportunity, and countless community events that bring us together.

From K9 retirements to winter shelters to blizzard memories, this edition reminds us what makes Laurel special—we're a community that serves, remembers, and takes care of each other. Here's to a great year ahead!

Got an event, story tip, or business we should feature? Just hit reply—I read every response.

See you next week!

— Mike Mondy
Founder, I❤️LAUREL

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