I-35 Permanent Exit Closures and US 183 Project Milestones: Austin Traffic Update

Austin Traffic and Commute Overview: Thursday, February 5, 2026

Commuters in Austin should prepare for a shifting landscape this morning as several major multi-year infrastructure projects reach critical milestones. While the recent wintry weather has cleared, the following roadworks and permanent lane changes are in effect today, February 5.

Major I-35 Exit and Ramp Changes

The most significant impact for central commuters is the permanent closure of two key access points on the I-35 corridor. As of this week, the northbound I-35 Riverside Drive exit (Exit 233) and the Holly Street entrance and exit ramps (Exit 234A) are officially closed to allow for the reconstruction of the Lady Bird Lake bridge. Drivers who previously used these exits are advised to use the following detours:

• Northbound Detours: Use the Woodland Avenue exit (232B) or the Cesar Chavez Street exit (234B) to access the frontage roads.
• Cesar Chavez Update: Relief is expected shortly as crews prepare to reopen the northbound Cesar Chavez entrance ramp, which has been closed since mid-2025.
• North Project: In North Austin, expect frontage road lane reductions between SH 45 North and Grand Avenue Parkway as widening work continues.

US 183 North and Loop 360 Construction

The US 183 North mobility project is nearing its final stages this month. The northbound express lanes from Braker Lane to SH 45 are now operational, providing a smoother path for toll users. However, expect intermittent lane closures through the end of February as crews finalize the interchange connectors at MoPac (Loop 1).

On Loop 360 (Capital of Texas Highway), work continues at the Westlake Drive and Cedar Street intersections. These lanes are currently being "buried" to remove traffic lights, leading to shifting lane patterns and reduced speed limits through the work zone.

Downtown and Local Alerts

In the downtown area, eastbound traffic on Cesar Chavez Street near Congress Avenue remains restricted to fewer lanes due to ongoing sidewalk and utility improvements. Pedestrian detours are also in place in this area.

Drivers in East Austin should anticipate localized congestion around Govalle Elementary this evening. A rescheduled Austin Police Department town hall is set for 6:00 p.m., which may increase traffic on local arteries near the Govalle and Bolm Road area.

Public Transit Status

CapMetro reports that all bus and rail services are running on regular weekday schedules. Riders are encouraged to monitor the CapMetro App for real-time updates, as a major website redesign is scheduled for tomorrow, February 6, which may cause brief digital service interruptions.