Full CapMetro Service Resumes as Austin Navigates Post-Storm Road Recovery

Commuter Update: Recovery Mode After Winter Storm

After several days of freezing temperatures and hazardous precipitation, Austin is transitioning back to a standard commute schedule this Wednesday, January 28, 2026. While the extreme cold warning has expired, city and state officials urge commuters to remain cautious. Although major arteries have been treated and cleared by TxDOT crews working 24-hour shifts, secondary roads and shaded areas may still harbor patches of 'black ice' or lingering slush as the remaining ice continues to melt throughout the morning.

CapMetro and Public Transit Status

Capital Metro has announced the resumption of full service for all Bus, Rail, Pickup, and MetroAccess routes today. This follows significant service suspensions during the height of the winter storm earlier this week. However, riders should be prepared for potential localized detours or delays. Some routes may still be diverted if crews encounter residential streets that remain too slick for safe transit operations. Commuters are encouraged to check the transit agency’s digital alerts before heading to their stops, as some 'Night Owl' adjustments and realignment plans for the Tech Ridge Express (Route 935) were recently implemented to improve reliability amidst ongoing highway construction.

Major Roadworks and Permanent Closures

Beyond the weather recovery, several major construction projects continue to impact traffic flow in the metro area. Commuters should be aware of the following significant updates:

• I-35 Woodland Avenue: The vehicle crossing at Woodland Avenue is now permanently closed as part of the I-35 Capital Express project. Drivers who previously used this underpass must now detour via Oltorf Street or Riverside Drive. This change is a permanent fixture of the interstate expansion.
• I-35 North Frontage Roads: In North Austin, frontage roads between SH 45 North and Grand Avenue Parkway remain reduced to a single lane in several sections. Expect significant merging delays during peak hours as crews continue widening efforts.
• US 183 North Toll: The first phase of the new toll lanes on northbound US 183, stretching from Burnett Road to SH 45, is officially open. Drivers are finding relief on this stretch, but should use caution as they adjust to the new traffic patterns near the MoPac interchange.
• Loop 360: Ongoing work at Westlake Drive and Cedar Street continues to cause lane shifts. While this project is slated for completion later this year, the current 'sinking' of the mainlanes requires reduced speeds through the construction zone.

Morning Traffic Outlook

Traffic patterns this morning may also be influenced by adjusted school schedules. While Austin ISD and Austin Community College have resumed regular operations, neighboring districts including Leander ISD and Liberty Hill ISD are operating on a two-hour delay. This may lead to a 'double' morning rush hour as different segments of the workforce and student population hit the roads at staggered intervals. Drivers are reminded to maintain a safe following distance and avoid using cruise control until they are certain the pavement is completely dry and free of ice.