UC Horizon: Lane Closure | UCPS Special Programs Lottery | Health & Wellness Guide

Union County Horizon

Feb. 9, 2024

Community News

Scheduled Highway 74 Lane Closure & Power Outage

Feb. 13 Lane Closure on the outside, westbound lane of Highway 74 from Fowler Secrest Road past Secrest Price Road

The City of Monroe's Electric Division will be closing a single lane of W. Highway 74 and conducting a scheduled power outage for approximately 213 customers on Tuesday, Feb. 13, to complete the installation of electric cables and equipment. Those customers will be notified in advance.

The single lane closure will take place on the outside, westbound lane (toward Charlotte) of Highway 74 from Fowler Secrest Road past Secrest Price Road from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. All traffic control devices and personnel will be in place to direct traffic during the closure. This project is expected to conclude by 4 p.m. on Tuesday, February 13. For any questions or concerns, call the City of Monroe Electric Division at 704.282.4600.

UCPS Special Programs Lottery

Beginning Monday, Feb. 12, families can apply for Special Programs in Union County Public Schools (UCPS) for the 2024-2025 school year. UCPS offers a wide range of academic programs to students, including special programs. These provide students with the opportunity to explore a variety of disciplines and learn in different settings. Some of the offerings include health sciences, agrotechnology, performing arts, pre-engineering, information systems, sustainable energy and classes on a college campus with an opportunity to earn an associate’s degree. 

The following schools are included in the lottery: 

The application window is from Feb. 12 – March 10. All applications must be submitted through Scribbles, the district’s online application portal. Parents will be notified on March 25 and April 10 is the deadline to claim seats.

2024 Health & Wellness Guide

Are you looking for resources to help you maintain your health and wellness?

Check out the Union County Health and Wellness Resources Guide listing Union County agencies and organizations that provide health, wellness, safety, fitness, and nutrition resources to Union County residents.

The guide is available in English, Spanish and Russian.

Love the Outdoors?

Young park attendant bringing in a kayak from the lake

Work in the great outdoors, gain valuable experience and make new friends!

Cane Creek Park is currently hiring a variety of seasonal positions, including recreation assistants, lifeguards and park attendants.

Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity! Click here to view current opportunities and apply

Healthy Living

Know the Signs of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Kerosene heaters should not be used to heat indoor spaces, as they emit gases that reduce the amount of oxygen in the air and increase the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

The most common symptoms of CO poisoning are:

  • headache
  • dizziness
  • weakness
  • upset stomach
  • vomiting
  • chest pain
  • confusion

February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month

Dating is a part of life that many experience for the first time as a teenager. Teens need to be encouraged to talk openly about respect, consent and boundaries. The earlier they are exposed to what healthy relationships look like, the better it is for them. Every person, young or old, is deserving of a healthy, loving relationship.

Visit loveisrespect.org for access to help and information on dating, signs of abuse, and how to set boundaries.

Community Events

Saturday Screenings at the Dowd Center Theatre in downtown Monroe are back! Don't miss the showing of American comedy "The Goonies" on Saturday, Feb. 10Click here for full schedule.

In celebration of Black History Month, Union County Library is hosting the film: "Black is the Color" on Feb. 15, 7-9 p.m. Following the film, there will be a live panel discussion with local Black artists. Click here for event details

The City of Monroe and Bela Nature will be sponsoring this year's Community Walk on Saturday, Feb. 17. Enjoy a nice walk around downtown and meet many non-profit and civic organizations in our community. Click here for details.