Austin Commute Alert: Permanent I-35 Exit Closures and Post-Storm Recovery

Morning Overview: Cold Front and Clear Skies

Commuters in Austin are facing a brisk and challenging morning today, Wednesday, February 4, 2026. Following the passage of a cold front yesterday, temperatures have plummeted, with wind gusts reaching up to 35 mph. While the weather is currently clear with periodic clouds, drivers should be aware that temperatures may drop further to a brisk 37 degrees after sunset this evening. Road conditions have largely returned to normal following last week's wintry mix, but significant new construction patterns are now the primary concern for the morning rush.

I-35 Capital Express Central: Major Permanent Changes

The most critical update for those traveling through the urban core is the permanent closure of major access points on I-35, which went into effect this week. These changes are part of the ongoing multi-billion-ton overhaul of the interstate through downtown.

• Permanent Exit Closures: The northbound I-35 Riverside Drive exit (233) and the Holly Street entrance and exit (234A) are now permanently closed. Commuters heading north must now use either the Woodland Avenue exit (232B) or the Cesar Chavez Street exit (234B) to reach the frontage roads.
• Woodland Avenue Crossing: The vehicle crossing at Woodland Avenue under I-35 is also permanently closed. Drivers who previously used this route to slip under the highway must detour to Oltorf Street or Riverside Drive.
• MLK Jr. Boulevard Bridge: Reconstruction continues on the MLK Bridge. Traffic is currently reduced to three lanes—two eastbound and one westbound. Expect delays near the University of Texas campus, especially during peak hours.
• Lady Bird Lake U-Turns: The south-to-north U-turn beneath the Lady Bird Lake bridge remains closed nightly as crews work on the bridge widening.

CapMetro and Public Transit Updates

CapMetro has resumed regular operations today following the recent winter weather disruptions. However, several construction-related detours remain in place that may impact your morning route. Significant detours are active at Rosewood and Hargrave, as well as utility-related rerouting on 12th Street through February 5. The Texas Capitol stop remains closed until further notice.

New Infrastructure and Safety

There is positive news for pedestrians and cyclists: the highly anticipated Wishbone Bridge and Unity Underpass at Pleasant Valley Road are scheduled to officially open this Saturday, February 7. Media tours were conducted earlier this week, signaling the end of the long-term detours in that area. Drivers are reminded to remain vigilant for road crews throughout the I-35 corridor, particularly near the new drop shaft construction sites at Edgewood, which began active work on Monday.