Alton Morning Briefing: Flood Plan Shift, Steel Probe, Weekend Events

Local Headlines

Alton Daily Briefing

Here’s a quick look at what’s happening around Alton for Saturday, February 7, 2026.

Flood wall plan scaled back as costs rise

Alton’s long-discussed flood protection project is shifting course after engineers warned that a permanent downtown flood wall could now cost about $7 million, far above earlier estimates. City staff say they are leaning toward dropping the wall while keeping other upgrades on track.

The work that is still moving forward includes new shutoff valves to reduce sewer backups during high water, a pumping station near 3rd Street, and improvements to Chessen Lane, the key access road to the wastewater treatment plant. Most of the funding will come from a federal grant paired with local tax-increment dollars, and the project faces a September 2026 completion deadline.

State investigates Alton Steel closure

The Illinois Department of Labor has opened an investigation into whether Alton Steel followed state law when it shut down and laid off more than 250 workers this winter. Under the state’s WARN Act, large employers are generally required to give 60 days’ notice before mass layoffs or plant closures.

The company has argued that sudden financial trouble and the loss of critical raw materials forced an abrupt shutdown, but state officials are now reviewing what steps were taken to protect employees and keep the mill operating. Former workers and local leaders are watching closely for any findings that could affect severance or future enforcement.

Ghost stories and giving at Dead of Winter

Franklin Lodge on Washington Avenue is hosting the 27th annual Dead of Winter gathering today from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The free event features talks on ghost stories, folklore, and local hauntings, along with authors, vendors, and other spooky-themed attractions.

Organizers are also collecting nonperishable food items, turning the popular paranormal meetup into a midwinter boost for area pantries.

Campus events and tax help in February

Lewis and Clark Community College has released a packed February events lineup, including arts programs, forums, and community activities across its Godfrey campus. One ongoing offering with a big local impact is the Alton Area Tax Project, which provides appointment-based tax preparation help on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays through mid-April.

Prep sports: Redbirds hit the winter grind

On the court, Alton’s boys basketball team ran into a tough Edwardsville squad Friday night, falling in a low-scoring matchup as conference play tightens heading into the stretch run. Elsewhere in the area, Marquette Catholic continued to draw attention with another strong performance.

Alton’s girls bowling program is also in the spotlight after a regional title and a standout showing from its top bowler, keeping winter sports fans busy as postseason brackets come into focus.

Coming up: School board calendar

Residents looking to stay involved in local schools can mark February 17 on the calendar, when the Alton Community Unit School District board is scheduled to meet at Alton High School in the evening.

Sources

Look for updates to this story

Discover more from Interactive News

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

Local Tips & Viewpoints

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *