Best Friends and City of Abilene partner to improve shelter outcomes during director search

The City of Abilene is pleased to announce that Best Friends Animal Society will be committing a qualified staff member to serve as interim director of Abilene Animal Services for the next 12 months. Under the terms of the partnership, the interim directo...

Latest COVID-19 testing numbers as of May 31, 2020

These are the latest COVID-19 testing numbers and results reported to the Abilene Taylor-County Public Health District as of May 31, 2020.

Please note one death has been removed from the previous count of 6 and reassigned to that individual’s cou...

UPDATED: Reopening dates for City of Abilene services and facilities

The City of Abilene is working to open several programs and facilities in the coming weeks:

• Abilene Animal Shelter - Reopening May 11, no Saturday hours, owner surrenders/euthanasia by appointment only
• Abilene Public Library 
  • Main & South Branch...

Butternut Street Detour Begins

Butternut Street repairs have begun with improvements expected until August 2020. A detour is currently in place for all through traffic as construction continues. Local traffic may continue to access homes & businesses along construction route.

• Please...

Reopening of Health District and MERCY Clinic set for June 1

The Abilene Taylor County Public Health District is preparing to reopen its 850 North 6th and 1902 Shelton MERCY Health Clinic location on Monday, June 1, 2020, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Temperature checks will be conducted on site for a...

CityLink to Remove 10 Passenger Limit on Buses

Effective May 18, 2020, CityLink Transit is removing the 10 passenger per bus limit on all fixed routes. The return to normal fixed route service is being restored to provide the public with essential transportation services as local businesses are reopen...

Long-term water source secured for Abilene, Midland, and San Angelo

What began a decade ago as a collaborative effort by the cities of Abilene, Midland and San Angelo to address long-term water needs culminated today with the signing of a multi-generational groundwater supply contract.

The cities negotiated a 50-year agree...

Required change in test reporting brings total cases of COVID-19 in Taylor County to 206

The Texas Department of State Health Services has notified the Abilene Taylor County Public Health District of two changes needing to made in its reporting of COVID-19 positive test results in Taylor County, which will bring the known number of total COVI...

John Knox Repairs Begin

John Knox repairs expect to begin on May 4 with improvements expected for approximately 1 month. John Knox will be closed from Ridgemont to Curry Lane.

• Please use caution while traveling in the area
• Please use alternate routes to access businesses & par...

Entry Level Police Officer Applications Accepted

Now through June 14, answer the call and apply to be an entry level police officer with the Abilene Police Department.

Mayor Williams requests permission to hold August election

Mayor Anthony Williams has sent a letter to Texas Governor Greg Abbott requesting a proclamation allowing Abilene and other public entities to conduct elections in August following Abbott’s postponing of May 2020 local elections to lessen the sp...

Thirty-six Abilene Fire Department self-isolate with COVID-19

 The Abilene Fire Department reports thirty-six of its members have tested positive for the COVID-19 virus during the past seventy-two hours. An additional seven members of the department are in self-quarantine awaiting test results.  In...

MERCY Clinic and Abilene Taylor County Public Health District closed to public

The Abilene Taylor County Public Health District at 850 North 6th Street, and MERCY Health Care Center at 1902 Shelton Street are now closed to the public until further notice.  

Residents are still able to access resources and COVID-19 testing pr...

Abilene Taylor County Public Health District reports 3rd COVID-19 related death for Taylor County

The Abilene Taylor County Public Health District reports the third COVID-19 related death for Taylor County on Wednesday, April 22, 2020 at 6:53 a.m.

The deceased patient was a male in his 60s, with underlying health conditions, who was being cared for at ...

News conference set to discuss COVID-19 testing at AbiMar Foods

A news conference will be held Monday, April 20, 2020 at 11:15 a.m. to discuss COVID-19 testing at AbiMar Foods, and the company’s proactive response in minimizing the spread of the virus within their workforce and our community.

AbiMar Foods vol...

Abilene Taylor County Public Health District reports second COVID-19 related death for Taylor County

The Abilene Taylor County Public Health District reports the second COVID-19 related death for Taylor County on Wednesday, April 15, 2020.

The deceased patient was a male in his 70s, with underlying health conditions, who was being cared for at Hendrick Me...

Possible exposure to COVID-19 positive individuals at Southwest Drive Walmart

CORRECTION/UPDATE: This news release pertains to the Southwest Drive Walmart on Abilene’s south side, not the Highway 351 Walmart previously reported.

The Abilene Taylor County Public Health District would like to notify the public of possible ex...

Abilene Taylor County Public Health District reports first COVID-19 related death for Taylor County

The Abilene Taylor County Public Health District reports the first COVID-19 related death for Taylor County on Saturday, April 4, 2020.

The deceased patient was a female in her 40s, and a resident of Disability Resources, Inc. (DRI) with underlying medical...

Abilene Taylor County Public Health District receives four positive COVID-19 test results

The Abilene Taylor-County Public Health District has received four additional positive test results for COVID-19, bringing the total positive test count for Taylor County and Dyess Air Force Base to seven. 

The four new positive test results are a...

A message from Mayor Anthony Williams

Over the last few weeks, the City Council and I have worked to take measured, responsible steps to minimize the spread of COVID-19 in our community; we first restricted gatherings to 250 individuals, and as new data was collected, to 50. When Governor Gre...

Abilene Taylor County Public Health District receives second positive COVID-19 test result

The Abilene Taylor-County Public Health District has received its second confirmed positive test result for COVID-19 in Taylor County. This brings the total positive test count for Taylor County to three, including a positive result reported by Dyess Air ...

Details around first confirmed positive case of COVID-19 in Taylor County

An investigation into the circumstances surrounding the first individual to test positive for COVID-19 in Taylor County has revealed the following information:

• The infected individual is a resident of Disability Resources, Inc., and was not recently engage...

Abilene Taylor-County Health District receives first confirmed positive test result for COVID-19

The Abilene Taylor-County Public Health District has received its first confirmed positive test result for COVID-19 in Taylor County.

The infected individual was tested Wednesday, March 25, and received notification of their positive test result Thursday, ...

Residents urged to practice social distancing and sanitize at City parks

The City of Abilene’s Department of Community Services would like to encourage all Abilene area residents using City parks and playgrounds to practice social distancing, and properly sanitize before and immediately after visiting a park, touchin...

Extension of Disaster Declaration Limits Gatherings to 10

Abilene Mayor Anthony Williams has issued a disaster declaration, effective immediately after signing on Monday, March 23, 2020, limiting the gathering of individuals in our community to 10. This action makes it a criminal offence to hold a gathering of 1...

Not Feeling Well? Call First!

If an individual feels they may be showing symptoms for COVID-19, it is important they first call their medical provider or the Abilene Taylor-County Public Health District at 325.692.5600 for screening and further instruction.

 Please do not arri...

Gatherings Limited, City Closures Announced to Limit Potential for Spread of COVID-19

Abilene Mayor Anthony Williams has issued a disaster declaration, effective Monday, March 16, 2020, limiting the gathering of individuals in our community to 250. This action makes it a criminal offence to hold a gathering of 250 or more people, and will ...

Registration Opens March 2nd for 2020 Summer Camps

Registration opens March 2nd for the City of Abilene’s Parks and Recreation’s summer camps. 

To learn more about each camp session, check out our latest Adventure Guide at www.abilenetx.gov/364Adventure-Guide

Our summer camps ar...

Abilene Street Projects

Learn about Abilene's current Street Projects, from the Bond Program passed in 2015 to the Street Maintenance Fee on Your Abilene Investment: Streets.

Medical Professionals Encouraged to Join the Greater Abilene Medical Reserve Corps

The Greater Abilene Medical Reserve Corps (GAMRC) is looking for members of Abilene’s medical and first responder community to join their ranks!

GAMRC is a part of the national Medical Reserve Corps, which works to help local communities during a public he...

Welcome to the Storybook Capital of America!

In 2015, the 84th Legislature of the State of Texas designated Abilene as the official Storybook Capital of Texas for its efforts to celebrate literary works for children. Since then, the Storybook Capital’s draw has expanded across America.

The ...

Best Friends and City of Abilene partner to improve shelter outcomes during director search

The City of Abilene is pleased to announce that Best Friends Animal Society will be committing a qualified staff member to serve as interim director of Abilene Animal Services for the next 12 months. Under the terms of the partnership, the interim directo...

Reopening of Health District and MERCY Clinic set for June 1

The Abilene Taylor County Public Health District is preparing to reopen its 850 North 6th and 1902 Shelton MERCY Health Clinic location on Monday, June 1, 2020, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Temperature checks will be conducted on site for a...

UPDATED: Reopening dates for City of Abilene services and facilities

The City of Abilene is working to open several programs and facilities in the coming weeks:

• Abilene Animal Shelter - Reopening May 11, no Saturday hours, owner surrenders/euthanasia by appointment only
• Abilene Public Library 
  • Main & South Branch...

CityLink to Remove 10 Passenger Limit on Buses

Effective May 18, 2020, CityLink Transit is removing the 10 passenger per bus limit on all fixed routes. The return to normal fixed route service is being restored to provide the public with essential transportation services as local businesses are reopen...

Long-term water source secured for Abilene, Midland, and San Angelo

What began a decade ago as a collaborative effort by the cities of Abilene, Midland and San Angelo to address long-term water needs culminated today with the signing of a multi-generational groundwater supply contract.

The cities negotiated a 50-year agree...

Required change in test reporting brings total cases of COVID-19 in Taylor County to 206

The Texas Department of State Health Services has notified the Abilene Taylor County Public Health District of two changes needing to made in its reporting of COVID-19 positive test results in Taylor County, which will bring the known number of total COVI...

Mayor Williams requests permission to hold August election

Mayor Anthony Williams has sent a letter to Texas Governor Greg Abbott requesting a proclamation allowing Abilene and other public entities to conduct elections in August following Abbott’s postponing of May 2020 local elections to lessen the sp...

Thirty-six Abilene Fire Department self-isolate with COVID-19

 The Abilene Fire Department reports thirty-six of its members have tested positive for the COVID-19 virus during the past seventy-two hours. An additional seven members of the department are in self-quarantine awaiting test results.  In...

MERCY Clinic and Abilene Taylor County Public Health District closed to public

The Abilene Taylor County Public Health District at 850 North 6th Street, and MERCY Health Care Center at 1902 Shelton Street are now closed to the public until further notice.  

Residents are still able to access resources and COVID-19 testing pr...

Abilene Taylor County Public Health District reports 3rd COVID-19 related death for Taylor County

The Abilene Taylor County Public Health District reports the third COVID-19 related death for Taylor County on Wednesday, April 22, 2020 at 6:53 a.m.

The deceased patient was a male in his 60s, with underlying health conditions, who was being cared for at ...

Abilene Taylor County Public Health District reports second COVID-19 related death for Taylor County

The Abilene Taylor County Public Health District reports the second COVID-19 related death for Taylor County on Wednesday, April 15, 2020.

The deceased patient was a male in his 70s, with underlying health conditions, who was being cared for at Hendrick Me...

Possible exposure to COVID-19 positive individuals at Southwest Drive Walmart

CORRECTION/UPDATE: This news release pertains to the Southwest Drive Walmart on Abilene’s south side, not the Highway 351 Walmart previously reported.

The Abilene Taylor County Public Health District would like to notify the public of possible ex...

Abilene Taylor County Public Health District reports first COVID-19 related death for Taylor County

The Abilene Taylor County Public Health District reports the first COVID-19 related death for Taylor County on Saturday, April 4, 2020.

The deceased patient was a female in her 40s, and a resident of Disability Resources, Inc. (DRI) with underlying medical...

Abilene Taylor County Public Health District receives four positive COVID-19 test results

The Abilene Taylor-County Public Health District has received four additional positive test results for COVID-19, bringing the total positive test count for Taylor County and Dyess Air Force Base to seven. 

The four new positive test results are a...

A message from Mayor Anthony Williams

Over the last few weeks, the City Council and I have worked to take measured, responsible steps to minimize the spread of COVID-19 in our community; we first restricted gatherings to 250 individuals, and as new data was collected, to 50. When Governor Gre...

Abilene Taylor County Public Health District receives second positive COVID-19 test result

The Abilene Taylor-County Public Health District has received its second confirmed positive test result for COVID-19 in Taylor County. This brings the total positive test count for Taylor County to three, including a positive result reported by Dyess Air ...

Details around first confirmed positive case of COVID-19 in Taylor County

An investigation into the circumstances surrounding the first individual to test positive for COVID-19 in Taylor County has revealed the following information:

• The infected individual is a resident of Disability Resources, Inc., and was not recently engage...

Residents urged to practice social distancing and sanitize at City parks

The City of Abilene’s Department of Community Services would like to encourage all Abilene area residents using City parks and playgrounds to practice social distancing, and properly sanitize before and immediately after visiting a park, touchin...

Abilene Taylor-County Health District receives first confirmed positive test result for COVID-19

The Abilene Taylor-County Public Health District has received its first confirmed positive test result for COVID-19 in Taylor County.

The infected individual was tested Wednesday, March 25, and received notification of their positive test result Thursday, ...

Extension of Disaster Declaration Limits Gatherings to 10

Abilene Mayor Anthony Williams has issued a disaster declaration, effective immediately after signing on Monday, March 23, 2020, limiting the gathering of individuals in our community to 10. This action makes it a criminal offence to hold a gathering of 1...

Gatherings Limited, City Closures Announced to Limit Potential for Spread of COVID-19

Abilene Mayor Anthony Williams has issued a disaster declaration, effective Monday, March 16, 2020, limiting the gathering of individuals in our community to 250. This action makes it a criminal offence to hold a gathering of 250 or more people, and will ...

Street Work Begins on downtown Central Business District street improvement project

Work begins Friday, March 6th on the City of Abilene’s Central Business District street improvement project in downtown Abilene.

The first portion of roadway to undergo construction is Cedar Street from North 1st to North 2nd. Over the next year,...

City Attorney Comment Regarding Carter v. City of Abilene Verdict

Abilene City Attorney Stanley Smith has issued the following statement regarding today’s verdict in the Carter v. City of Abilene lawsuit:

“The City of Abilene respects today’s verdict by the jury in the Chad Carter v. City of...

Mayor Anthony Williams Receives Council of Governments Regional Services Award

The West Central Texas Council of Governments and City of Abilene is proud to announce Abilene Mayor Anthony Williams as the latest recipient of the West Central Texas Council of Governments Regional Services Award.

Mayor Williams is the fourth person to r...

Website Personalization Now Available!

By clicking “Log In” on the MyAccount bar at the top of the screen, users may create a login for the site or use their Facebook profile to access MyAccount. Once logged in, visitors can choose the modules, features and keywords that they’d like to see mos...

Convention Center Floorplan

Planning an event? View the floorplan of the Convention Center and find the perfect space for you event!

Attending an Event

Are you attending an event? Find out about parking, location, and our box office to help your visit go smoothly.

UPDATED: Reopening dates for City of Abilene services and facilities

The City of Abilene is working to open several programs and facilities in the coming weeks:

• Abilene Animal Shelter - Reopening May 11, no Saturday hours, owner surrenders/euthanasia by appointment only
• Abilene Public Library 
  • Main & South Branch...

Latest COVID-19 Testing Numbers as of May 31, 2020

These are the latest COVID-19 testing numbers and results reported to the Abilene Taylor-County Public Health District as of May 31, 2020.

Please note one death has been removed from the previous count of 6 and reassigned to that individual’s cou...

Required change in test reporting brings total cases of COVID-19 in Taylor County to 206

The Texas Department of State Health Services has notified the Abilene Taylor County Public Health District of two changes needing to made in its reporting of COVID-19 positive test results in Taylor County, which will bring the known number of total COVI...

Thirty-six Abilene Fire Department self-isolate with COVID-19

 The Abilene Fire Department reports thirty-six of its members have tested positive for the COVID-19 virus during the past seventy-two hours. An additional seven members of the department are in self-quarantine awaiting test results.  In...

MERCY Clinic and Abilene Taylor County Public Health District closed to public

The Abilene Taylor County Public Health District at 850 North 6th Street, and MERCY Health Care Center at 1902 Shelton Street are now closed to the public until further notice.  

Residents are still able to access resources and COVID-19 testing pr...

Abilene Taylor County Public Health District reports 3rd COVID-19 related death for Taylor County

The Abilene Taylor County Public Health District reports the third COVID-19 related death for Taylor County on Wednesday, April 22, 2020 at 6:53 a.m.

The deceased patient was a male in his 60s, with underlying health conditions, who was being cared for at ...

News conference set to discuss COVID-19 testing at AbiMar Foods

A news conference will be held Monday, April 20, 2020 at 11:15 a.m. to discuss COVID-19 testing at AbiMar Foods, and the company’s proactive response in minimizing the spread of the virus within their workforce and our community.

AbiMar Foods vol...

Abilene Taylor County Public Health District reports second COVID-19 related death for Taylor County

The Abilene Taylor County Public Health District reports the second COVID-19 related death for Taylor County on Wednesday, April 15, 2020.

The deceased patient was a male in his 70s, with underlying health conditions, who was being cared for at Hendrick Me...

Possible exposure to COVID-19 positive individuals at Southwest Drive Walmart

CORRECTION/UPDATE: This report pertains to the Southwest Drive Walmart on Abilene’s south side, not the Highway 351 Walmart previously reported.

The Abilene Taylor County Public Health District would like to notify the public of possible exposure...

Abilene Taylor County Public Health District reports first COVID-19 related death for Taylor County

The Abilene Taylor County Public Health District reports the first COVID-19 related death for Taylor County on Saturday, April 4, 2020.

The deceased patient was a female in her 40s, and a resident of Disability Resources, Inc. (DRI) with underlying medical...

Abilene Taylor County Public Health District receives four positive COVID-19 test results

The Abilene Taylor-County Public Health District has received four additional positive test results for COVID-19, bringing the total positive test count for Taylor County and Dyess Air Force Base to seven. 

The four new positive test results are a...

A message from Mayor Anthony Williams

Over the last few weeks, the City Council and I have worked to take measured, responsible steps to minimize the spread of COVID-19 in our community; we first restricted gatherings to 250 individuals, and as new data was collected, to 50. When Governor Gre...

Abilene Taylor County Public Health District receives second positive COVID-19 test result

The Abilene Taylor-County Public Health District has received its second confirmed positive test result for COVID-19 in Taylor County. This brings the total positive test count for Taylor County to three, including a positive result reported by Dyess Air ...

Details around first confirmed positive case of COVID-19 in Taylor County

An investigation into the circumstances surrounding the first individual to test positive for COVID-19 in Taylor County has revealed the following information:

• The infected individual is a resident of Disability Resources, Inc., and was not recently engage...

Abilene Taylor-County Health District receives first confirmed positive test result for COVID-19

The Abilene Taylor-County Public Health District has received its first confirmed positive test result for COVID-19 in Taylor County.

The infected individual was tested Wednesday, March 25, and received notification of their positive test result Thursday, ...

Residents urged to practice social distancing and sanitize at City parks

The City of Abilene’s Department of Community Services would like to encourage all Abilene area residents using City parks and playgrounds to practice social distancing, and properly sanitize before and immediately after visiting a park, touchin...

Extension of Disaster Declaration Limits Gatherings to 10

Abilene Mayor Anthony Williams has issued a disaster declaration, effective immediately after signing on Monday, March 23, 2020, limiting the gathering of individuals in our community to 10. This action makes it a criminal offence to hold a gathering of 1...

Gatherings Limited, City Closures Announced to Limit Potential for Spread of COVID-19

Abilene Mayor Anthony Williams has issued a disaster declaration, effective Monday, March 16, 2020, limiting the gathering of individuals in our community to 250. This action makes it a criminal offence to hold a gathering of 250 or more people, and will ...

Don't Die of Doubt: Dial 911

When the first signs of a heart attack or a stroke hit, calling 911 right away does more than just get you a ride to the ER. It immediately sets into motion a chain reaction of trained professionals, the latest technology, and specialized personnel, worki...

ISO Class 1

The Abilene Fire Department has received the ISO Class 1 classification. ISO, or Insurance Services Office, collects data from fire districts and communities throughout the country and scores departments based on certain categories and programs. The ISO r...

AFD Employment

Apply for a job at the Abilene Fire Department

About the AFD

The Abilene Fire Department is a full service department that responds to calls involving fires, medical emergencies, hazardous materials, and rescue situations within the city limits of Abilene. The AFD responds to over 15,000 calls annually and provides...

AFD on Social Media

Stay up to date with the Abilene Fire Department: follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!

Structure Fire: 1700 Block of Glenwood Drive

At approximately 0203 hours on May 20th 2020, the Abilene Fire Department responded to a residential structure fire located in the 1700 block of Glenwood Drive. Crews arrived to find flames and smoke coming out of the attic space and made a quick attack e...

Structure Fire: 2400 Block of Buffalo Gap Road

On May 13, 2020 at approximately 1:50 p.m., the Abilene Fire Department responded to a two-alarm structure fire located  in the 2400 block of Buffalo Gap Road. Fire crews arrived to find smoke and flames coming from the 1st floor of the two-story...

Structure Fire: 300 Block of Pleasant Hill

On May 7th, 2020, at approximately 6:15 a.m. the Abilene Fire Department responded to a structure fire in the 300 block of Pleasant Hill.  Fire crews arrived to find a RV fully involved, and quickly spreading to a manufactured home. A fire attack...

COVID-19 Update from the Abilene Fire Department

The Abilene Fire Department has experienced a direct impact due to the COVID-19 coronavirus.  To date, 49 firefighters have tested positive for the virus, and an additional 6 have self-quarantined due to direct exposures.  These numbers ...

Structure Fire: 5400 Block of Texas Avenue

At approximately 1740 on May 5th 2020, the Abilene Fire Department was dispatched to a structure fire at the 5400 block of Texas Ave. A second alarm was dispatched due to it being a multi family dwelling and a high life hazard. Arriving units found light ...

Cleaning Apparatus

We want to first apologize for the late notice but the Abilene Fire Department just confirmed with the professional cleaning service a start time for May 1st. We would like to invite the media to Station 6, 1482 South Danville, at 8:30 a.m. on May 1st, 20...

Structure Fire: 2300 Block of N Treadaway

At approximately 1340 on April 22nd, 2020 the Abilene Fire Department responded to a residential structure fire at the 2300 block of North Treadaway. Crews arrived to find Smoke and flames showing and made a fast attack extinguishing the fire. The residen...

Structure Fire: 1600 Block of Chestnut

On April 22nd 2020, at approximately 4:30 a.m. the Abilene Fire Department responded to a structure fire in the 1600 block of Chestnut. Fire crews arrived to find heavy smoke and flames coming from a single story residential structure. A 2nd Alarm was cal...

Structure Fire: 800 of Peach Street

On April 19, 2020 at approximately 4:30 p.m. the Abilene Fire Department was dispatched to a residential structure fire in the 800 block of Peach Street. Crews arrived to find smoke and flames showing at the rear of the residence and a  second al...

Structure Fire: 5200 Block of South 7th

On April 16th, 2020 at 11:50 p.m., the Abilene Fire Department responded to a residential structure fire in the 5200 block of South 7th Street.  Fire crews arrived to find smoke and fire showing and quickly extinguished the fire. Three residents ...

Structure Fire: 400 Block of Pine

On March 28, 2020 at approximately 9:20 pm the Abilene Fire Department responded to a high rise structure fire located in the 400 Block of Pine. The fire was out upon arrival. The occupants had a small cooking fire that initiated the sprinkler system resu...

Structure Fire: 2000 Block of South 19th

On March 28, 2020 at approximately 12:11 pm the Abilene Fire Department responded to a structure fire located in the 2000 block of South 19th. Upon arrival, heavy smoke was found coming from the 1st floor of the two-story residential structure. A fire att...

Structure Fire: 2800 Block of Pine Street

On March 19th, 2020 at approximately 09:50 a.m., the Abilene Fire Department responded to a structure fire in the 2800 block of Pine St. Fire crews arrived on scene to find heavy smoke and flames coming from a single-wide mobile home structure. The occupa...

Structure Fire: 3900 Block of Pine Street

On March 9, 2020, at approximately 10:40 pm, the Abilene Fire Department responded to a structure fire in the 3900 block of Pine Street. Fire crews arrived to find a wrecking yard with heavy smoke and flames showing. Fire crews made their attack from the ...

Structure Fire: 900 Block of Vine St.

On March 4th, 2020 at approximately 7:20 p.m. the Abilene Fire Department responded to a structure fire in the 900 block of Vine St. Fire crews arrived on scene to find smoke venting from the structure. Upon forcing entry, fire crews found heavy fire in t...

Structure Fire: 4000 Block of Redbud Circle

On March 3^rd, 2020, at approximately 7:45p.m. the Abilene Fire Department responded to a structure fire in the 4000 block of Redbud Circle. Fire crews arrived to find heavy smoke and flames showing from the front and rear of the multifamily duplex. Fire c...

Structure Fire: 5200 Block of Questa Drive

On February 6th, 2020, at approximately 7:30 a.m. the Abilene Fire Department responded to a structure fire in the 5200 block of Questa Drive. Fire crews arrived to find a single story dwelling with light smoke showing from the side of the structure. Fire...

Structure Fire: 1300 Block of Sewell

On February 6th, 2020, at approximately 12:00 a.m. the Abilene Fire Department responded to a structure fire in the 1300 block of Sewell. Fire crews arrived to find a single story dwelling with light smoke showing from the garage. Fire crews gained access...

Structure Fire: 300 Block of Westmoreland

On January 15, 2020, at approximately 9:30 a.m. the Abilene Fire Department responded to a structure fire on the 300 block of Westmoreland. Fire crews arrived to find light smoke and flames coming from the back of the residence on the exterior of the stru...

Structure Fire: 2400 Block of Buffalo Gap Road

On January 10, 2019 at approximately 9:41 p.m. the Abilene Fire Department responded to a structure fire at an apartment complex located in the 2400 block of Buffalo Gap Road. Fire crews arrived to find light smoke coming from a first floor apartment. A 2...

Structure Fire: 3900 Block of Chris Drive

At approximately 1229 hours on 01/08/2020 AFD Crews responded to a structure fire located at the 3900 block of Chris drive. First arriving units found two structures involved, one fully involved and the second partially involved with heavy smoke and fire ...

Structure Fire: 4800 Block of Mary Lou

On November 15, 2019, at approximately 10:15 a.m. the Abilene Fire Department responded to a structure fire in the 4800 block of Mary Lou. Fire crews arrived to find a single story dwelling with light smoke showing. Fire crews gained access to the interio...

Structure Fire: 2800 Block of Sayles

On November 6^th 2019 at 0345 the Abilene Fire Department responded to a possible structure fire at the Maison Blanche Apartments at the 2800 block of Sayles. After crews arrived on scene the structure fire was quickly updated to a third alarm fire. The fi...

Remember the Origins of Memorial Day

Today is Memorial Day, a day to honor the nation’s war dead.  Originally known as Decoration Day, because Civil War veterans’ graves were decorated by flowers, it originated in the south in 1865 and later spread to the north. ...

Welcome Back to Your Library!

Two locations of your Abilene Public Library are opening their doors today as we welcome our patrons back under a limited service plan. The Main Library will be open to the public Monday through Friday from 9:00AM to 6:00PM and 9:00AM to 1:00PM on Saturda...

2020 Friends of the Library Book Sale Postponed

The Board of the Friends of the Abilene Public Library have made the difficult decision to postpone their 2020 Annual Book Sale until June 2021.  The 31st annual sale, which would have been held on June 18-21, was determined to be too logisticall...

Library to Open May 18 with Limited Services, Reduced Hours

Monday, May 18, the Main Library and South Branch locations will open their doors to the public.  We appreciate everyone who has taken advantage of our digital services during our COVID-19 closure, but now you’ll have the opportunity to...

Record Numbers are Checking Out the Library Online

Abilene Public Library has great online resources, and the citizens of Abilene have apparently enjoyed having them during the month of April! Our digital circulation has far surpassed any other month in our history, with more than 23 thousand circulations...

Future Abilene Heritage Square Brightens Up as Crew Power Wash Exterior

As Published on the Abilene Reporter-News on Wednesday, May 6 by Brian Bethel

The future looks bright for the future site of Abilene Heritage Square, and now so does the exterior of the former Lincoln Middle School/Abilene High School.

The building&rsqu...

Learn Skills at Home with Your Library's Help

As we all stick closer to home these days and with so many ‘normal’ activities limited until further notice, many people are taking the time to brush up on old skills, or learn new things. Cooking is now a must-have skill, exercise rou...

Travel the World from Comfort of Home

This time of year is often when families begin to plan their summer vacations - what exciting destinations can be picked? What will appeal to everyone? Staycation, or go somewhere you’ve always wanted to go? Unfortunately, COVID-19 may squash th...

Let the Abilene Public Library Help with Homeschooling

With the uncertainty over whether schools will reopen before the end of the semester, parents and teachers are working hard to make sure their K-12 children have the resources they need to keep up to grade level. Your Abilene Public Library can help! We h...

Learning is at Your Fingertips with a Library Card

Last time we talked about some of our leisure reading online resources for all ages, but your Abilene Public Library has much, much more than that! Students of all ages have access to online courses that can earn Continuing Education Units, as well as tes...

Not Accepting Purchase Requests At this Time

Update May 16, 2020: The Abilene Public Library will no longer be accepting requests for purchasing materials for the remainder of our fiscal year, which ends September 30, 2020.  This includes requests for purchases of books, a...

Get Live Help with Library Lessons Online Series

The physical collection at your Abilene Public Library may be closed to the public, but that doesn’t mean you’re without access to great resources.  As long as you have a valid Abilene Public Library card, we encourage you to ...

Enjoy Live Online Storytimes During Library Closure

Social distancing is a common phrase we’re hearing often due to the fast spread of COVID-19.  Your Abilene Public Library will close its doors to the public, effective Monday, March 23, in the city’s attempt of lessening the p...

Abilene Public Library Closed to Limit Potential Spread for COVID-19

UPDATE 4-3-2020: Limited staff will operate out of the Main Library (202 Cedar St., PH: 325-677-2474) only effective Monday, April 6.  Staff will operate out of this location Mondays through Fridays from 8:00AM to 5:00PM.  If you are in ...

Pre-Construction Happening at Future Abilene Heritage Square

As Published in the Abilene Reporter-News on Sunday, March 15, 2020 by Brian Bethel

Contractors’ trucks have been surrounding the entrances of Abilene Heritage Square for a several days as pre-construction activities commence.

Housed in t...

Reserve This Week's Best Sellers

Everyone always looks out for popular reading material at the library, and each week we like to put a spotlight on the popular materials from the week compiled from the New York Times Best Sellers lists for Hardcover Fiction and Nonfiction titles. &nb...

AARP Suspends Tax Aide Until Further Notice

Abilene Public Library has been informed by the AARP that the Tax Aide programs at our Main and Mockingbird libraries have been suspended indefinitely due to COVID-19.  The statement on their website www.aarp.org reads, in part: "As...

Digital Bookmobile Tour Abilene Stop Canceled

The Digital Bookmobile Tour event scheduled for the South Branch of the Abilene Public Library on Tuesday, March 17 has been canceled. Library staff were informed around 3:30 p.m. this afternoon with the following statement from OverDrive. 

&l...

(Video) Library Partners with Girl Scouts to Encourage Young Volunteers

The Abilene Public Library is looking to spark a volunteering spirit in young people. We learn about their partnership with The Girl Scouts to get young people involved.

Abilene Public LibraryMain Library- 202 Cedar St.South Branch Library- Mall of Abilene...

(Video) Create Your Look for Library's Cosplay Contest!

No matter how young or how old one may be, getting dressed up in fun costumes to become your favorite superhero or villain is just fun.  This is at the heart of the Cosplay Contest that’s hosted every year at Lib-Con at your Abilene Pub...

South Branch to Host Digital Bookmobile National Tour

As Published by Brian Bethel of the Abilene Reporter-News on Tuesday, March 10, 2020

The Digital Bookmobile National Tour will make a stop at the south branch of the Abilene Public Library in the Mall of Abilene on Tuesday, March 17, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m....

(Video) Learn About Women's Right to Vote at Local Workshop

Librarian Amy Watterman set up a great program for the community on the history of Women’s Right to Vote.  Honoring this month’s designation as Women’s History Month, this topic was well-received by those who attende...

To Eat or Not to Eat? We Can Answer That Question!

There are a few things we all need to stay alive.  Eating is certainly one of them.  Nowadays, many of us are jumping on the bandwagon of making a conscious decision to eat healthily, which can mean choosing the lesser of two evils when ...

(Video) Prepare Yourself for Lib-Con in April

In the latest Inside the Library series from your Abilene Public Library, you’ll learn about the upcoming Lib-Con events coming in April.  This is the library’s annual series of specialized programming that gives you a mini-co...

Reserve This Week's Best Sellers

Everyone always looks out for popular reading material at the library, and each week we like to put a spotlight on the popular materials from the week compiled from the New York Times Best Sellers lists for Hardcover Fiction and Nonfiction titles. &nb...

Newly Visible Changes at Abilene Heritage Square

Covered by BigCountryHomepage on Thursday, March 6, 2020

Contractors’ trucks have been surrounding the entrances of Abilene Heritage Square for several days now.

Here’s a rundown of the activities going on inside and outside the project:...

(Video) West Texas Homeless Network Holds Free Monthly Coffee Meetings

Appeared on KTAB 4U with Adam Singleton on Wednesday, March 4, 2020

The West Texas Homeless Network tells us about their monthly coffee meetings where anyone is invited to learn about the help available for those in need.

FREE Coffee & Conversations!Wes...

(Video) Come Aboard the OverDrive Bookmobile

Your Abilene Public Library is pleased to host the OverDrive Bookmobile as it makes a stop at the South Branch Library during its national tour.  Stop by on Tuesday, March 17 from 11AM to 3PM and you’ll see the bookmobile in the parking...

Reserve This Week's Best Sellers

Everyone always looks out for popular reading material at the library, and each week we like to put a spotlight on the popular materials from the week compiled from the New York Times Best Sellers lists for Hardcover Fiction and Nonfiction titles. &nb...

The Robots are Coming...to the Abilene Public Library

Don’t be alarmed folks; there is no impending danger from Skynet or other sapient machines. But the library has received an awesome set of Cue robots by Wonder Workshop as well as several sets of the award winning electronic learning tool, Snap ...

Reserve This Week's Best Sellers

Everyone always looks out for popular reading material at the library, and each week we like to put a spotlight on the popular materials from the week compiled from the New York Times Best Sellers lists for Hardcover Fiction and Nonfiction titles. &nb...

(Video) Library Offers Week of Fun for Spring Break

Segment by Adam Singleton, KTAB 4U, Posted on Wednesday, February 19, 2020

Spring break is just around the corner and if you’re still looking for something fun for the kids the Abilene Public Library has plenty to offer.

Spring Break at The Librar...

Participate in Run4Reading Fundraiser

The Abilene Public Library and Chick-fil-A have had a great and growing partnership over the past few years.  We’ve conducted regular storytimes at their restaurants while they’ve provided children with treats and incentives f...

Black History Remembered at Abilene Library

The Abilene Public Library offers a vast collection of materials on African-American history and culture.  Available in print, electronic and audio/visual formats, the majority may be found in the non-fiction area of the Main Library but also at ...

Reserve This Week's Best Sellers

Everyone always looks out for popular reading material at the library, and each week we like to put a spotlight on the popular materials from the week compiled from the New York Times Best Sellers lists for Hardcover Fiction and Nonfiction titles. &nb...

(Video) Inside the Library: New Printing Kiosks

In our latest Inside the Library video, Alyssa Crow (South Branch Manager) will be on hand to introduce you to the new Print Kiosks at your Abilene Public Library.  It’s the fastest way to pick up your print jobs using a self-service pr...

View 2019 Annual Report from Your Library

The Abilene Public Library’s Annual Report is now available for the public to view.  It’s a great way to chart our progress over the past year, and what an exciting year it was.  Within the report you’ll rec...

(Video) Inside the Library: Free Tax Assistance

The Free Tax Assistance program at your Abilene Public Library is one of the great services we’re pleased to host every year.  Open to the community to participate in, this is your chance to be able to visit your library and e-File your...

Calling All Local Performers to Open Mic Night Series

If you have a talent you’ve been waiting to showcase before your friends and neighbors, your Abilene Public Library has just the thing!  We are hosting monthly open mic nights where you can show off your skills onstage at the South Bran...

Reserve This Week's Best Sellers

Everyone always looks out for popular reading material at the library, and each week we like to put a spotlight on the popular materials from the week compiled from the New York Times Best Sellers lists for Hardcover Fiction and Nonfiction titles. &nb...

All Library Locations Closed February 5-6

Update 02-05-20 at 5:00PM: All library locations will remained closed through Thursday, February 6, as well as City Hall and city offices with the exception of essential personnel.

All Abilene Public Library branch locations will be closed on Wednesday, Fe...

(Video) Inside the Library: Open Mic Night

The new Open Mic Night series at your South Branch Library kicked off with a bang.  40+ guests came out to support the talent that bravely took to center stage to entertain everyone.

Singing was the most popular form of entertainment for the eveni...

Ep. 48: Squirrels & Some Frozen Moles

It’s February...Black History Month...the Month of Love...whatever you choose, we’re here for another episode where Tremain will tell you about a Black History experience in Starbucks and Jessica has a frozen mole she wants to keep as ...

Read the Book Before You See it on Screen

I hope you enjoyed the column last week, and since 2020 will be chock full of book-to-movie adaptations, here are even more titles. So take a quick look at some more offerings and check in with your Abilene Public Library to start reading, since we all kn...

View this Month's Bibliofiles Newsletter

The Abilene Public Library hosts a wide range of events and activities for the entire community to enjoy.  With programming developed for youth, teens, and adults, there’s always something for everyone to get involved in.

Feel free to pe...

Reserve This Week's Best Sellers

Everyone always looks out for popular reading material at the library, and each week we like to put a spotlight on the popular materials from the week compiled from the New York Times Best Sellers lists for Hardcover Fiction and Nonfiction titles. &nb...

Ep. 47: Squirrels & Some Drag Power to the People

We’re back for more podcast fun with Tremain and Jessica at your Abilene Public Library.  First off, we apologize for the technical difficulties with the audio, but we never noticed Jessica’s microphone went out after about 20...

(Video) Inside the Library: Annual Children's Workshop

Tremain Jackson sits down with Alyssa Crow to discuss the Annual Workshop coming up at your Abilene Public Library on Monday, March 2.  This all-day event is designed for area wide librarians, school librarians, school library aides, and other pr...

See If the Book Was Better at Your Library

Unsurprisingly, 2020 holds an avalanche of books being adapted for film and television. So take a skim through some of the new year’s latest offerings and check in with your Abilene Public Library to decide if, indeed, the book is better than th...

Reserve This Week's Best Sellers

Everyone always looks out for popular reading material at the library, and each week we like to put a spotlight on the popular materials from the week compiled from the New York Times Best Sellers lists for Hardcover Fiction and Nonfiction titles. &nb...

Construction Work Begins on Former Lincoln Middle School Building

As covered by Joey Hollingsworth of KTAB/KRBC on Tuesday, January 22, 2020

Work has begun on the old Lincoln Middle School in Abilene, as crews prepare to transform the building into a new, high-tech hub.

According to a social media post from Abilene Herita...

(Video) Abilene Public Library to Begin Free Tax Assistance Program in February

Segment by Adam Singleton, KTAB 4U on Wednesday, January 22, 2020 

Filing your own taxes? The Abilene Public Library tells us how they can help for free.

Free Tax AssistanceFebruary 5th – April 11th10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Main Library...

Ep. 46: Squirrels & Something Wicked This Way Comes from Missouri

January is almost over, but the podcasting fun continues with hosts Tremain & Jessica from the Abilene Public Library.  On today’s show you’ll hear about the struggle with claustrophobia, how our thoughts are still with Au...

Reserve This Week's Best Sellers

Everyone always looks out for popular reading material at the library, and each week we like to put a spotlight on the popular materials from the week compiled from the New York Times Best Sellers lists for Hardcover Fiction and Nonfiction titles. &nb...

Ep. 45: Squirrels & Seeing Clear in 2020

Join Tremain Jackson & Jessica Reyes for a fresh episode for the new year, and since the year is 2020, let’s kick off the year with trying to see things a little more clearly. Today’s show will be shorter than our usual shows, but ...

Learn to Make Lunch on the Go

Everyone’s busy, especially during the school year.  Because of this, school lunches for the kids may consist of a lunchmeat sandwich with chips, an apple or snack cake and a soda.  The same may appear in the lunchbox of any adult who ta...

Reserve This Week's Best Sellers

Everyone always looks out for popular reading material at the library, and each week we like to put a spotlight on the popular materials from the week compiled from the New York Times Best Sellers lists for Hardcover Fiction and Nonfiction titles. &nb...

(Video) Know Your Rights: Home Buying 101

Your Abilene Public Library hosts regular "Know Your Rights" sessions in partnership with our friends from Legal Aid of Northwest Texas.  Usually conducted on a monthly basis, each features a different topic in the legal field for the c...

(Video) Abilene Public Library to Host Open Mic Night January

Segment by Adam Singleton, KTAB 4U on Wednesday, January 8, 2020

Have a talent you’ve been waiting to showcase? The Abilene Public Library is hosting an open mic night where you can show you best skills.

View the full event listing by Clicking Her...

Abilene Wide Open: Fandom Dance Party

You know, it's fine that the librarians danced the most. After all, Friday evening was the first after-hours Fandom Dance Party at the Abilene Public Library's Main Branch.

Not everyone knew what to expect, so hesitancy at cutting the rug in a new environm...

The Baker Street Irregulars are on the Case at Your Abilene Public Library

Your Abilene Public Library is beginning the new year with a new club for fans of one of the English speaking world’s most beloved literary figures. On Thursday, January 9, the Baker Street Irregulars: Abernetty Family of Abilene, Texas will hold their fi...

Find a New Hobby with the Abilene Public Library's Help

No matter how young we are, or how old we get, taking the time to relax with a favorite hobby, crafting activity or recreational pastime is something all can benefit from.  These things help us to reduce stress, spend time with family and friends...

Dance the Night Away in After Hours Library Event

If you enjoy any fandom, cosplay, geeky, or nerdy things - and you love to dance and meet new people - join us at your Main Library (202 Cedar St.) for our first ever Fandom Dance Party.  We'll host the event in the auditorium, located on the sec...

Reserve This Week's Best Sellers

Everyone always looks out for popular reading material at the library, and each week we like to put a spotlight on the popular materials from the week compiled from the New York Times Best Sellers lists for Hardcover Fiction and Nonfiction titles. &nb...

Ep. 44: Squirrels & Some Love for Mariah

Join Tremain Jackson & Jessica Reyes for a fresh episode just before the holidays.  Jessica's loves the holiday season, but Tremain's a bit indifferent; however, congratulations to Mariah Carey and her hit Christmas Song "All I Want for ...

Perform in Library's New Open Mic Night Series

Are you a singer, poet, comedian, musician, or performer with the urge to entertain a captive audience?  If so, we incite you to you join in on the South Branch Library’s new Open Mic Night series where you can share your talent with others. &...

Broaden Your Holiday Horizons at Your Library

The Holiday season is a time when cheer and goodwill abound.  All things seem possible, perhaps because it brings out the child in all of us.  We once again feel capable of the creativity, the imagination, and the joyful, courageous aban...

Register for Conversational Spanish Series

Start the new year off right by signing up for a free, six-week class titled Let’s Talk: Conversational Spanish, hosted at your Mockingbird Branch Library.  Did you know over 400 million people worldwide speak Spanish?  That ma...

Reserve This Week's Best Sellers

Everyone always looks out for popular reading material at the library, and each week we like to put a spotlight on the popular materials from the week compiled from the New York Times Best Sellers lists for Hardcover Fiction and Nonfiction titles. &nb...

Abilene Council Cements Agreement for Heritage Square, New Library

The Abilene City Council Thursday approved an agreement to donate the former Abilene High School/Lincoln Middle School property on South First Street to a nonprofit that plans to renovate the structure.

Once that project is done, expected to be around 2023...

New Abilene Librarian Needs to be Creative, Passionate, People-Oriented

Abilene City Manager Robert Hanna says he plans to start the search for a new city librarian in the new year. 

Hanna is looking for the right person who can take the Abilene Public Library to the next level, someone to shepherd the transition from...

New "Squirrels & Shiny Things" Episode

Gear up for another solo show as Tremain Jackson takes the helm while Jessica Reyes is out on vacation.  There may be a little less banter, but we still have some great content to give to everyone including a lot of news coverage to make up for l...

Council to Vote on Abilene High/Lincoln Middle School...

The Abilene City Council will vote to donate the former Lincoln Middle School to the Abilene Heritage Square project at its regular evening meeting Thursday.

The council plans to also vote on a lease agreement with the new owners to use space within the re...

Cook Up Some Fun with a Culinary Mystery

Good books and good food can go hand in hand, particularly during the holiday season, and books that mesh the two together have created a niche in the  mystery genre that continues to be popular at your Abilene Public Library.  I’m refer...

Reserve This Week's Best Sellers

Get a look at the top 15 books in Hardcover Fiction & Nonfiction titles from the New York Times Best Sellers List.

(Video) Abilene Police Need to Identify Suspect

Abilene police need help identifying a suspect accused of stealing from the library.

The suspect was caught on camera taking merchandise from the Mockingbird Branch of the Abilene Public Library on December 5.

He was wearing a black sweatshirt and khaki sho...

(Video) Let's Build an Igloo!

The South Branch Library has already built an igloo in the past, and Branch Manager Alyssa Crow wanted to do so again.  Collecting well over 200 emptied and cleaned milk jugs, she got to work constructing her second igloo for the season. &nbs...

(Video) Viva Strings! Mini-Concert at City Sidewalks

Watch the full performance as recorded on Tuesday, December 2, 2019 at the Main Library's auditorium.

(Video) Abilene Public Library Hosts Gingerbread House Workshop

Segment by Adam Singleton, KTAB 4U

Next week you can build your very own gingerbread house at The Abilene Public Library. Here is how you can join the fun.

Gingerbread Houses WorkshopAbilene Public Library202 Cedar St.Monday, December 16th5:00 pm(325) 676-6...

New "Squirrels & Shiny Things" Episode

Tune into another episode of the library's podcast where we dish on library programming to attend this week, new DVD releases to look out for, and more. Catch our show here, or subscribe to us on the major podcasting platforms.

Catch a Dream at Your Abilene Public Library

These days everyone "knows" what a dream catcher is.  It's that hoop with webbing and feathers that people use to decorate their homes or put on their keychains.  Actually it is a Native American craft with meaning attached to ...

Reserve This Week's Best Sellers

Get a look at the top 15 books in Hardcover Fiction & Nonfiction titles from the New York Times Best Sellers List.

Tune Into New "Squirrels & Shiny Things" Episode

CLICK HERE TO ACCESS LATEST PODCAST EPISODE

Hello everyone, it's Tremain Jackson & Jessica Reyes coming at you, post-Thanksgiving, for some library talk to dish on some holiday selections you might want to ease into as well as all of our fun library to...

Remember Your Downtown Library this December

December is a wonderful time, full of holiday cheer and sooooo many things to do!  Your Abilene Public Library has many great programs all across our system, but I'd like to draw your attention to some we'll be hosting at the Main Library downtow...

(Video) What to Expect at the Abilene Public Library This December

There’s a plenty of fun coming up as the year winds down at The Abilene Public Library. We find out some of what you can look forward to.

Abilene Public Library202 Cedar St.(325) 677-2474abilenetx.gov/aplFind them on Facebook

Catch new "Squirrels & Shiny Things" Episode

CLICK HERE TO ACCESS LATEST PODCAST

In our latest episode, Tremain Jackson & Jessica Reyes are tackling the following topics when it comes to the library world:

• Library Events: None to cover this week because it's the week of Thanksgiving. May you all s...

(Video) Harvesting Family History with ACU

The Abilene Public Library loves partnering with local professionals to lead programming and workshops available to the public.  On Thursday, November 14, 2019, Mac Ice & Amanda Dietz, archivists at Abilene Christian University, were our gues...

School Library Journal Releases Top Picture Books

If there's one thing families can always count on finding at your local library, it's a great selection of reading materials for their children. The juvenile collection of the library remains the most circulated item type. Sometimes you might be looking f...

Join the Abilene Public Library's Online Social Soiree

In case you don’t know, you can keep up with your Abilene Public Library on social media.

The library maintains a presence on several of the most popular sites and can be accessed by visiting abilenetx.gov/apl. Look for the social media icons loc...

(Video) Preliminary Plans Solidified for Old Lincoln Middle School

Story by Jessica Ranck with KTAB/KRBC on November 12, 2019

While things may be quiet at the old Lincoln Middle School now, it won’t be long before the familiar sounds of books being stacked and checked in echo off these historic walls.

“...

(Video) Fall Fun Coming Soon at South Abilene Library

There are some fun programs and events coming up at the South Branch of The Abilene Public Library. We learn what you can expect.

Abilene Public Library South BranchMall of Abilene4310 Buffalo Gap Rd.Abilene, TX 79606PH: (325) 698-7565

Library Director Lori Grumet Retiring

Article from the Abilene Reporter-News on Wednesday, November 13, 2019 by Timothy Chipp

Change is coming to the Abilene Public Library, both in the short term and in the future.

While librarians and city officials continue working toward building and openin...

New "Squirrels & Shiny Things" Episode Available

Listen to Episode #39: Squirrels & Some Textual Healing

In our latest episode, Tremain Jackson & Jessica Reyes are tackling the following topics when it comes to the library world:

• Library Events to Attend: Hear about some great events for adults to...

No Meet the Staff for Summer

There will be no meet the staff night May 28 for the summer. If you have any further questions, please email Parks and Recreation at parksandrec@abilenetx.gov.

Read on...

Parks and Recreation COVID-19 Update

As of Wednesday, May 20, City of Abilene park playgrounds will be open to the public, and as of Friday, May 22, splash pads will be open to the public. Outdoor recreation such as basketball, tennis, disc golf, and fishing are open to the public, we just a...

Adventure Cove COVID-19 Update

Due to current circumstances with COVID-19, Adventure Cove will not be opening Memorial Day weekend like we have done in previous years. Opening day is still to be determined.

Summer Camps 2020

Here comes the fun at the City of Abilene Parks and Recreation Summer Camp for 2020! We have a variety of themed camps that will keep the kids learning and having fun this summer. Our camps offer a safe and nurturing place to play fun recreation games, op...

About Recreation

Find out more about the associations and awards of our Recreation Department.

Classes

Our Recreation Department offers different classes, ranging from aikido to dog obedience training!

Aquatics

Abilene is home to six aquatic facilities - five splash pads located throughout different parks in Abilene, and one aquatic center with water slides and a lazy river!

Adaptive Recreation

Staff plans and coordinates a variety of structured activities that teach life skills, games that improve cognitive and motor skill development.

No Meet the Staff for Summer

There will be no meet the staff night on May 28 for the summer. If you have any further questions, please email Parks and Recreation at parksandrec@abilenetx.gov.

Read on...

Parks and Recreation COVID-19 Update

As of Wednesday, May 20, City of Abilene park playgrounds will be open to the public, and as of Friday, May 22, splash pads will be open to the public. Outdoor recreation such as basketball, tennis, disc golf, and fishing are open to the public, we just a...

Adventure Cove COVID-19 Update

Due to current circumstances with COVID-19, Adventure Cove will not be opening Memorial Day weekend like we have done in previous years. Opening day is still to be determined.

2020 Summer Camp Registration Open!

Here comes the fun at the City of Abilene Parks and Recreation Summer Camp for 2020! We have a variety of themed camps that will keep the kids learning and having fun this summer. Our camps offer a safe and nurturing place to play fun recreation games, op...

Abilene Man Arrested for Sex Offender Registry Non-Compliance

Abilene Police Department Detectives with Cyber Crimes arrested 26-year-old Juan Garcia on Thursday, May 5, 2002. Garcia was not complying with his court-ordered Sex Offender Registry which led to Detectives searching for Garcia. Detectives executed a sea...

Abilene Man Arrested for Child Pornography

Local police arrested a 23-year-old Abilene man for possessing child pornography. On Wednesday, May 6, 2020, the Abilene Police Department Cyber Crimes in conjunction with Dyess Air Force Base’s Office of Special Investigations, executed a searc...

Entry Level Police Officer Applications Accepted

Now through June 14, answer the call and apply to be an entry level police officer with the Abilene Police Department.

Two Area Males Arrested for Child Sex Crimes

The Abilene Police Department Cyber Crimes along with the Texas Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigations, arrested a Baird man and a Breckenridge man for two separate incidents involving crimes against children.

On Wednesday, April 29, police ex...

APD Confirms Eight more Cases of COVID-19

On Tuesday, April 28, 2020, medical personnel confirmed eight more officers with the Abilene Police Department having tested positive for the Novel Coronavirus, known as COVID-19. This brings the total to 11 confirmed cases as of 5 p.m. The officers confi...

APD Confirms Three Cases of COVID-19

On Monday, April 27, 2020, medical personnel confirmed three officers with the Abilene Police Department have tested positive for the Novel Coronavirus, known as COVID-19. The officers were tested as a result of a possible exposure to a first responder la...

Dyess Airman Sought by Police Identified

ABILENE, TX – The identity of the Dyess Airman who assaulted Dyess personnel on Wednesday, April 22, before fleeing and eluding police has been identified. Police are still looking for 37-year-old Dyess Airman, Erland Injerd. He continues to be ...

APD Assists in Search for Dyess Airman

ABILENE, TX – On Wednesday, April 22, 2020, at 3:38 pm, Abilene Police responded to an assist-agency call at Dyess AFB at a home located on Virginia Street. Security Forces along with other Dyess personnel were interacting with a service member ...

Patrol Officers Recognized

The Abilene Police Uniformed Services Division would like to recognize two of the four officers that will be eligible for the 2020 Patrol Officer of the Year award. Officers Andrew Spurgin and Jerod Daniel were selected by the Patrol Command Staff for the...

Cyber Crimes Arrest 67 Year Old Abilene Man

Detectives with the Abilene Police Department’s Cyber Crimes, Fraud Unit and the Texas Department of Public Safety, arrested a 67-year-old Abilene man this morning. Officers executed a search and arrest warrant in the early hours of April 15, at...

Cyber Crimes Arrests Abilene Man for Crimes Against Children

ABILENE, TX – Police arrested 36-year-old Larry Don Sparks for Sexual Performance by a Child and Promoting Child Pornography. On Wednesday, April 8, Abilene Police Cyber Crimes along with the Texas Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigat...

Motorcycle Fatal Crash Investigation

ABILENE, TX – The Abilene Police Department Traffic Division is investigating the fatal crash of a motorcycle rider. The crash occurred on Saturday, March 28, 2020 at 11:06 p.m. in the 3500 Block of North First Street. The single rider, 48 year ...

Haskell Man Arrested by Cyber Crimes

ABILENE, TX – Abilene Police assisted in the arrest of a 37 year old Haskell, TX., man for Promotion of Child Pornography. The Abilene Police Department’s Cyber Crimes Unit along with the Texas Department of Public Safety Criminal Inve...

Two Area Men Arrested for Child Crimes

ABILENE, TX – Abilene Police arrested two men, one from Abilene and the other from Aspermont, for crimes against children. On March 19, 2020, the Abilene Police Department Cyber Crimes along with the Texas Department of Public Safety’s...

Update: Officer Involved Shooting Male Identified

ABILENE, TX – Next of kin notification has been made on the deceased from Tuesday morning’s incident. He is identified as 28-year-old Lebarron Ballard of Abilene. This call was originally dispatched as a Felony Robbery which was follow...

Officer Involved Shooting

ABILENE, TX – A man was shot and killed by two on-duty police officers early in the morning on March 18, 2020 after attacking both of the officers with a knife. Police were called to a convenience store located in the 2400 Block of South First a...

Chief Standridge Response to Coronavirus

This is a trying time for our nation and our community, yet we remain Abilene Strong. We come together in times of difficulty. We take care of each other, as was evidenced in our community’s response to the May 2019 tornado. To address the addit...

Cyber Crimes Arrests 29 Area Men for Targeting Children

ABILENE, TX – In mid-March, the Abilene Police Department’s Cyber Crimes Unit, Fraud Unit, and Special Operations Division, with collaboration from the Texas Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigations Division and the U.S. Mar...

Pedestrian Fatality

ABILENE, TX – On Friday, March 6, 2020, at 10:30 p.m. Dispatch received a call of a crash involving a pedestrian who was struck by a vehicle on the 300 Block of US Highway 277 also known as Winters Freeway, north bound lane. First responders arr...

APD’s Chief Standridge and Beard Receive Prestigious Awards

Each year, the Regional Victim Crisis Center holds the Men of Strength and Style Show fundraiser. The committee chooses two outstanding citizens to bestow two of their top honors for their part in helping our community and more importantly, the work they ...

Suspect Arrested and Charged with Homicide

Detectives with the Abilene Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Division arrested 50-year-old Gene McCarter and charged him with Homicide. On Wednesday, February 19, at 12:46 a.m. McCarter called 9-1-1 to report that he came back to the h...

Abilene Female Arrested for Distributing Child Pornography

ABILENE, TX – Detectives with Abilene Police Department’s Cyber Crimes arrested 25-year-old Cassie Watson and charged her with Second Degree Felony Possession of Child Pornography with Intention to Promote, Third Degree Felony Tamperin...

Taylor County Man Charged with Child Pornography

ABILENE, TX – Detectives with Cyber Crimes arrested and charged a 27-year-old man with child sex crimes. On Wednesday, February 12, 2020, APD’s Cyber Crimes Unit, along with agents from the Texas Department of Public Safety, executed a...

Three Arrested on Fraud and Forgery Charges

ABILENE, TX – The Abilene Police Department arrested two males and a female from Georgia, suspected of trying to pass forged checks in Abilene. Police were notified by a south Abilene business of individuals attempting to cash forged checks. A d...

Police Arrest Male Suspect for Making Terroristic Threat

December 5, 2019

Arrest Male Suspect for Making Terroristic Threat

ABILENE, TX – Abilene Police arrested a 42 year old man for threatening the life of Police Chief Stan Standridge. On Tuesday, December 3, a male subject placed a call to police dis...

APD Investigating Homicide in North Abilene

December 4, 2019

                                          &nbs...

UPDATE: Cyber Crimes Human Trafficking Investigation

December 4, 2019 

UPDATE: Cyber Crimes Human Trafficking Investigation

ABILENE, TX – On Tuesday, December 3, 2019, the Abilene Police Department Cyber Crimes Unit began asking for public input in helping to identify 15 male subje...

Modifying the Extension of the Disaster Declaration to Adopt Executive Order GA-18

On the 16th day of March, 2020, a Declaration of Local Disaster was issued to allow the City of Abilene to take measures to reduce the possibility of exposure to COVID-19 and promote the health and safety of Abilene residents.

On April 30, 2020, the Disast...

Modifying the Extension of the Disaster Declaration Until April 30

On the 16th day of March, 2020, a Declaration of Local Disaster was issued to allow the City of Abilene to take measures to reduce the possibility of exposure to COVID-19 and promote the health and safety of Abilene residents.

That this Declaration and Ord...

Modifying the Extension of the Disaster Declaration

On the 16th day of March, 2020, a Declaration of Local Disaster was issued to allow the City of Abilene to take measures to reduce the possibility of exposure to COVID-19 and promote the health and safety of Abilene residents.

That this Declaration and Ord...

Mayor Issues Modified Order

On the 16th day of March, 2020, a Declaration of Local Disaster was issued to allow the City of Abilene to take measures to reduce the possibility of exposure to COVID-19 and promote the health and safety of Abilene residents.

Due to the substantial risks ...

Mayor Issues Disaster Declaration

On the 16th day of March, 2020, a Declaration of Local Disaster was issued to allow the City of Abilene to take measures to reduce the possibility of exposure to COVID-19 and promote the health and safety of Abilene residents.

Read the Full Order by the Ma...

Notice of General Election on Saturday May 2, 2020

NOTICE OF GENERAL ELECTION ON MAY 2, 2020

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT a general election will be held within the City of Abilene, Texas, on Saturday, May 2, 2020, between the hours of 7:00 am. and 7:00 p.m., as provided in Resolution Nos. 22-2020 calling t...

Notice of Drawing for a Place on the General Election Ballot

NOTICE OF DRAWING FOR A PLACE ON THE GENERAL ELECTION BALLOT

Notice is hereby given of a drawing to determine the order in which the names of candidates for Mayor and City Council Place 3 and Place 4 are to be printed on the ballot for the General Election...

Notice of Possible Quorum

Development Corporation of Abilene, Inc (DCOA) Board of Directors Notice of Possible Quorum

Retirement Reception of Kim Tarrant

Thursday, January 30, 20205:00pm

The Mill239 Locust StreetAbilene, Texas 79602

A discussion will be held relating to the retirement...

Notice of Possible Quorum

Abilene City Council Notice of Possible Quorum

City of Abilene Recreation Feasibility Community Meeting

Tuesday, January 14, 20205:30 pm to 7:30 pm

Abilene Convention CenterConference Room 41100 North 6th StreetAbilene, TX 79601

Notice of Possible Quorum

Development Corporation of Abilene, Inc. Notice of Possible Quorum

Abilene City Council

Thursday, December 193:30 p.m.

Abilene City Hall555 Walnut StreetAbilene, TX 79601

Notice of Possible Quorum

City of Abilene City Council Notice of Possible Quorum

Airport Development Board Meeting & Airfield Tour

Wednesday, December 11th3:00 p.m.

Abilene Regional Airport2933 Airport Blvd.Lower Level Conference Room of the Terminal

Street Projects for 5/26/2020

Alley Maintenance

• Zone N9
  • Within the limits of Pine Street to North Judge Ely and Ambler Ave to North 10th Street

Partial/Full Depth Patch Repair

• 1301 Cypress Street
  • Closed from N. 13th to 1301 Cypress St
• Scranton Lane
  • Closed from Baylor Drive to Cornell Drive

Re...

Street Projects for 5/18/2020

Alley Maintenance

• Complaints Citywide

Partial/Full Depth Patch Repair

• South 13th & Elm Street
• South 7th & Sunset Drive
• Will Hair Park

Repair Potholes

• Complaints Citywide

Street Projects for 5/11/2020

Alley Maintenance

• Complaints Citywide

Partial/Full Depth Patch Repair

• North 12th Street & Green Street
• South 12th Street & Sunset Drive
• Will Hair Park

Repair Potholes

• Complaints Citywide

Street Projects for 5/4/2020

Alley Maintenance

• Complaints Citywide

Partial/Full Depth Patch Repair

• Lytle Creek Drive
  • Closed from Oldham Lane to Loop 322, Paved Alley Maintenance
• Zoo Lane

Repair Potholes

• Complaints Citywide

Street Projects for 4/27/2020

Alley Maintenance

• Complaints Citywide

Crack Seal

• North Judge Ely Blvd
  • Closed from East Hwy 80 to I-20, Lane Closures Only

Partial/Full Depth Patch Repair

• Zoo Lane

Repair Potholes

• Complaints Citywide

Street Projects for 4/20/2020

Alley Maintenance

• Complaints Citywide

Crack Seal

• North Judge Ely Blvd
  • Closed from East Hwy 80 to I-20, Lane Closures Only

Partial/Full Depth Patch Repair

• Catclaw Drive
  • Closed from Curry Lane to Southwest Drive

Repair Potholes

• Complaints Citywide

Street Projects for 4/13/2020

Alley Maintenance

• Complaints Citywide

Crack Seal

• North Judge Ely Blvd
  • Closed from East Hwy 80 to I-20, Lane Closures Only

Partial/Full Depth Patch Repair

• Various

Repair Potholes

• Complaints Citywide

Street Projects for 4/6/2020

Alley Maintenance

• Complaints Citywide

Crack Seal

• Antilley Road
  • Closed from Buffalo Gap Rd to Medical Drive, Lane Closures Only
• North Judge Ely Blvd
  • Closed from East Hwy 80 to I-20, Lane Closures Only
• South Judge Ely Blvd
  • Closed from East Hwy 80 to Expo Drive, Lan...

Abilene Heritage Square

Abilene Heritage Square is now a Texas non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation that has been formed to rehabilitate and re-purpose the former Lincoln Middle School and original Abilene High School.

Downtown Hotel

With the design process now underway, the City and its project partners anticipate breaking ground on the 206-room full-service hotel located in the 500 block of Cypress and Cedar Streets in the summer of 2020.

Street Projects

The City of Abilene is working to invest over $20 million into our streets in 2020, through funding sources including the new Street Maintenance Fee, the Development Corporation of Abilene (DCOA), and the 2015 bond program.

Financial Transparency

In an effort to continue to enhance financial transparency, the City of Abilene is offering an interactive reporting tool that allows citizens to explore our budget data online.