Official City Notice: I-35 Construction Updates, Marathon Logistics, and Weekend Advisories

I-35 Capital Express Central Project: Northbound Frontage Road Closure

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has issued a major service announcement regarding the reconstruction of the Lady Bird Lake bridge. As of Friday, February 13, 2026, a key stretch of the northbound Interstate 35 frontage road near Riverside Drive is closed to all traffic. This closure is expected to remain in place through the weekend and launches a multi-year detour phase for the I-35 Capital Express Central project.

• Permanent Closures: The northbound Riverside Drive exit (Exit 233) and the Holly Street entrance and exit (Exit 234A) are now permanently closed.
• Detours: Westbound drivers on Riverside Drive seeking to head north on I-35 must travel south, perform a U-turn at Woodland Avenue, and use the new bypass lane.
• Pedestrian Access: The east sidewalk near the bridge is closed; pedestrians are advised to use the west sidewalk along the southbound frontage road.

Austin Marathon: Saturday Street Closures

In preparation for the 2026 Austin Marathon on Sunday, the City of Austin has authorized several central road closures effective Saturday, February 14. These closures are necessary for the installation of the finish line and the event expo area. Commuters should expect significant delays throughout the downtown corridor.

• Congress Avenue: Closed between Cesar Chavez Street and 11th Street starting at 4:00 a.m. on Saturday.
• Cross Streets: While many intersections will remain open intermittently, drivers are encouraged to use MoPac, Lamar Boulevard, or I-35 as north-south alternatives.

Parks and Recreation: Maintenance and Public Events

The Austin Parks and Recreation Department (PARD) has released the following updates for Saturday park usage and upcoming facility maintenance:

• Barton Springs Pool: A reminder that the pool will undergo a full closure starting Monday, February 23, 2026, for the Skimmer Bypass Project. Residents are encouraged to visit this weekend before the three-week maintenance window begins.
• Pease Park PSA: A free public Country Waltz Lesson and Dance Party will take place at the Tudor Cottage and Terrace on Saturday evening from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. registration is recommended but not required for this outdoor Valentine’s Day event.

Austin Animal Center: "Be My Pawlentine" PSA

Austin Animal Services is hosting the "Be My Pawlentine" adoption event from February 13 through February 15. The center, located at 7201 Levander Loop, is offering special adoption incentives to help find homes for long-stay residents. The facility is open to the public on Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

City Council Governance: Budget Transparency Notice

Following a resolution passed in late January, the Austin City Council has implemented new office budget spending limits. Under the new policy, the City will now publish an annual comprehensive report of all council member expenditures, including office supplies and subscriptions. This measure aims to increase public oversight of municipal funds starting with the current fiscal year.