NASCAR Crowds and I-35 Bridge Construction to Jam Southeast Austin Today

Sunday Commute Overview

Austin drivers should prepare for a high-volume Sunday on the roads as several major events and ongoing infrastructure projects converge. The combination of the final day of NASCAR at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA) and critical progress on the I-35 Capital Express Central project will likely result in significant congestion throughout the afternoon, particularly in Southeast Austin and the Downtown corridor.

Major Traffic Alert: COTA and NASCAR Weekend

The NASCAR Cup Series concludes today at the Circuit of the Americas, meaning heavy traffic is expected on TX-71 and FM 973. Travelers heading to or from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport should allow for an additional 30 to 45 minutes of travel time. Law enforcement will be directing traffic at key intersections near the track, so please stay alert and follow all temporary signage.

I-35 Capital Express Central Construction

Construction crews have reached a new milestone in the reconstruction of the I-35 bridges over Lady Bird Lake. Commuters should be aware of the following permanent and long-term changes:

• Riverside Drive: The existing northbound Riverside Drive exit remains permanently closed. Drivers are encouraged to use the new Riverside Drive bypass lane for improved mobility through the intersection.
• Holly Street: Both the entrance and exit ramps at Holly Street are closed. A temporary Holly Street exit and U-turn are available to facilitate access to the surrounding neighborhoods.
• Mainlane Impacts: While most heavy machinery work is scheduled for overnight hours, expect narrowed lanes and shifting traffic patterns between Lady Bird Lake and MLK Jr. Boulevard.

CapMetro Transit Alerts

Capital Metro has issued several service alerts effective today, Sunday, March 1, 2026, due to ongoing waterline installations and bridge work:

• Riverside Detours: Significant detours are in effect for routes serving the Riverside and IH-35 bridge area.
• Lady Bird Lake Area: Routes near the lake are experiencing delays due to the Lady Bird Lake Waterline project, which is scheduled for completion early this week.
• Downtown Detours: Expect minor bus route adjustments around Antone’s Nightclub and the Moody Center due to the Austin Music Awards and tonight’s Nine Inch Nails concert.

Regional Project Updates

In North Austin, the 183 North Project is nearing its final wrap-up phase. The new variable toll lanes on US-183 between MoPac and SH 45 are fully operational, providing a smoother alternative to the mainlanes. Meanwhile, in Southwest Austin, the Oak Hill Parkway project continues to transform the US-290 and SH-71 interchange. Expect localized delays near William Cannon and Convict Hill Road as flyover construction continues.