Major I-35 Frontage Road Closure Begins Today Near Riverside Drive

Morning Commute Update for Monday, February 16, 2026

Good morning, Austin. As we move into the start of the work week, which also coincides with President's Day, commuters should be aware of a significant new traffic pattern and long-term closure on one of the city's most critical arteries. While federal and local government offices are closed for the holiday, those traveling toward downtown or through South Austin will face new obstacles starting this morning.

Major I-35 Closure at Riverside Drive

The most critical update for today is the commencement of a major, long-term closure on the northbound I-35 frontage road just north of Riverside Drive. Originally scheduled to begin earlier this month, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) officially shifted the start date to Monday, February 16. This closure is part of the ongoing $4.5 billion I-35 Capital Express Central project and is expected to remain in place through 2029.

• Frontage Road: The northbound I-35 frontage road north of Riverside Drive is closed to vehicular traffic.
• Pedestrian Impacts: The east pedestrian path and the north sidewalk on Riverside Drive are also closed. Pedestrians and cyclists are being rerouted to the west sidewalk along the southbound I-35 frontage road to cross Lady Bird Lake.
• Bypass Lanes: Motorists are advised to utilize the new Riverside Drive bypass lane and the temporary south-to-north U-turn lane at Woodland Avenue to navigate around the construction zone.

Construction Progress on Loop 360 and US-183

Drivers in North and West Austin continue to see heavy activity as several multi-year projects approach major milestones this month. On Loop 360, crews are continuing work to sink the main lanes at Westlake Drive and Cedar Street. While work is nearing its mid-2026 completion goal, expect narrowed lanes and reduced speeds in the area.

In North Austin, the 183 North Project is entering its final stages. With the first new toll lanes having opened earlier this year, final paving and striping work between MoPac and SH 45 may cause intermittent off-peak lane closures throughout the week.

CapMetro and Public Transit Alerts

Due to the President's Day holiday, Capital Metro is operating on a modified service schedule. Riders should expect Saturday-level service for most bus routes. There is no MetroRail service today, and UT Shuttle services are suspended while the university is on holiday break. Regular weekday service is expected to resume tomorrow morning.

Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS)

Travelers heading to the airport should plan for additional time due to the ongoing terminal expansion. TSA Checkpoint 3 West remains closed for construction, which has reduced the available screening lanes. With holiday travelers returning today, airport officials recommend arriving at least 2.5 to 3 hours before domestic departures.