Baltimore Commute: I-895 Harbor Tunnel Reopens After Maintenance; I-95 Lane Splits Active

Morning Commute Overview for Friday, February 27, 2026

Baltimore area commuters are waking up to a mostly standard Friday morning traffic flow, though several major long-term construction projects continue to influence travel patterns on the region’s primary arteries. The biggest relief for early morning drivers is the reopening of the I-895 Harbor Tunnel, which has returned to full capacity following scheduled maintenance work overnight.

I-895 Baltimore Harbor Tunnel Reopens

As of 3:00 a.m. this morning, the Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) has concluded its scheduled maintenance on the I-895 Baltimore Harbor Tunnel. The southbound tunnel, which was closed last night, is now fully operational. The two-way traffic operations that were in effect in the northbound tunnel have been lifted, meaning drivers should no longer encounter the 15-to-20-minute delays that impacted late-night travelers. Commuters can expect a smooth transit through the tunnel during the morning rush, though residual slow-downs may occur as crews clear the final equipment from the shoulder areas.

I-95 Major Traffic Pattern Change at MD 24

Drivers traveling on southbound I-95 from Harford County into Baltimore City should remain extremely cautious near the MD 24 interchange (Exit 77). A major lane split remains in effect as part of the ongoing $1.1 billion project to extend the Express Toll Lanes. In this zone, southbound traffic is split into two sections: one lane is diverted to the left of the barrier walls, while three lanes remain to the right. Signs are posted well in advance to guide motorists to their desired lane. It is critical to note that the work zone speed limit has been reduced to 55 mph, and automated speed enforcement is active in this corridor to ensure the safety of construction crews.

I-695 Beltway and Transit Updates

On the Baltimore Beltway (I-695), the Transportation System Management and Operations (TSMO) project continues on the inner and outer loops between I-70 and I-83. While major lane closures are generally limited during peak hours, travelers should anticipate narrower lanes and the presence of construction vehicles. Additionally, reconstruction efforts for the Francis Scott Key Bridge are ongoing, meaning freight and commuters must continue to utilize the I-95 and I-895 tunnels as the primary detours.

Public transit riders should be aware that the Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) is moving forward with the Light Rail Modernization Program. While today’s service remains on schedule, procurement for future upgrades to the Central Light Rail Line is underway. Furthermore, construction at the MARC Martin State Airport facility is beginning to ramp up this fiscal year, focusing on improvements to storage tracks and maintenance buildings, which may lead to minor platform adjustments for Penn Line riders in the coming weeks.