COVID-19 Update: COVID-19 numbers for Allen are updated weekly at CityofAllen.org/Coronavirus. This page includes resources for helping slow the spread of COVID-19 in the community and the weekly
updates sent from Collin County.

Allen Fire Department received its second allotment of COVID-19 vaccines on Tuesday, January 5. Vaccines were immediately offered to qualifying individuals via email notification and online appointment. At this time, all public appointments are booked.

Until further notice, email notification to those signed up for alerts will be the only means of notification used to advise of vaccine availability and access to online appointment scheduling. This information will not be shared on the city’s other communication or social media channels. 


Due to the limited quantity of vaccines, walk-in appointments are not available.
Allen Fire Department is following state guidelines for distributing vaccines to priority groups. At this time, appointments are only available to health care workers, individuals over the age of 65, and individuals with one or more of the health conditions listed by the Texas Department of State Health Services.


Collin County appointment notifications
In addition to appointments offered by Allen Fire Department, Collin County Healthcare Services now offers a waiting list for future vaccine appointments. Complete and submit the form below to be registered as vaccines are available.


Other vaccine providers
Please reference the Texas COVID-19 Vaccine Provider Locations map to find other distribution sites that may have vaccines available at this time.

Additional information is available on the Allen Fire Department COVID-19 Vaccination web page.

Establish consistency and a healthy routine during Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium’s 2021 Challenge of the Year! 

To participate in the Check In Challenge, complete at least 30 minutes of exercise three times a week for 40 weeks. Work outs can be completed within Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium as well as out on the Allen trail system or even with exercises in your home. 

"Exercise is not ’work’ - It's another way to bond with friends, develop a competitive drive and give self-care," says Kolbie Elliott, Recreation Specialist II at the Natatorium. "I want you to see the importance fitness has on your life!" Participating in a fitness challenge like this is a great goal to work towards as you stay healthy and active throughout the year.

This challenge is open to anyone who would like to participate. For information about becoming a member and working out with us at Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium, call 214.509.4770.

All participants will receive a free T-shirt and be entered into a chance drawing to receive one FREE annual membership to the Natatorium for 2022. 

Allen residents have more ways than ever to plug into local news and information, thanks to new initiatives from the City’s Public and Media Relations Office.
The department conducted a citizen survey in 2019 to assess communication needs and preferences. As a direct result, the City developed new or improved tools for accessing key information about Allen, as reported to Allen City Council on November 10. 

Improve website and mobile app
Allen launched an upgraded City website in September 2020, created with a mobile user in mind. Action-driven buttons, user-focused navigation and a keyword search bar help visitors find what they need more quickly.

In addition, a new MyAllen mobile app and citizen request center allows users to submit service requests, receive trash and recycling reminders and get status updates.

In the 2019 survey, more than 40% of respondents identified the City of Allen website as a primary source of City news and events. However, some expressed dissatisfaction with organization of the current site, especially when using a mobile device. 


Enhance use of direct mail 
While a large portion of surveyed residents praised the City's digital communication efforts, approximately 35% indicated a need to supplement digital efforts with regular print communication. To address this need, the City launched a new printed publication called "In Focus." This new publication was first included in utility bills in October 2020 and will be featured as a special section in the LIFE Activity Guide in Winter 2020.


Improve digital news format
Nearly a third (30%) of respondents said they typically learn about city news and events from a email subscription to City news. However, some expressed frustration with the old newsletter design, which required readers to click links to view important event details such as date and time. As a result, the City newsletter was refreshed in January 2020 with a new layout, allowing for more information to be included in each issue.


Provide more development and economic growth information
In the update to City Council, Public and Media Relations Director Teresa Warren highlighted a new mapping tool created by the City’s Community Development Department.

This user-friendly feature uses GIS mapping software to pinpoint the location of development projects, whether proposed, coming soon or already under construction. The map was announced on the City website in November and will be promoted in various communication channels.


In addition, AllenNews.org now includes a section highlighting new businesses, development activity and news from Allen Economic Development Corporation.

Future improvements
The Public and Medial Relations Office continues working with Allen Police Department on enhanced crime and emergency notifications. The departments are currently training on new software to send geo-targeted messages to users who enroll in the notification tool. This will allow more timely and targeted messaging to impacted neighborhoods or traffic routes.

  • Enrollment coming soon

The department is also deploying chat bots on social media channels to assist residents with frequently-asked questions and popular search topics.
“We are excited to continue expanding our ability to provide relevant and time-sensitive messages to our community, especially during emergencies,” said Warren.
 
Get connected with the City of Allen 
You can get updates on local news, events and more by following or subscribing to the City of Allen’s communication channels.