Baltimore Friday Traffic: I-95 Pattern Changes Postponed Amid Winter Storm Prep

Commute Overview for Friday, January 23, 2026

Baltimore commuters can expect a relatively standard morning drive today, but significant changes are on the horizon for the afternoon and the upcoming weekend. While major arterial roads are currently flowing at typical Friday volumes, the Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) and the Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) have issued several updates regarding long-term construction projects and event-based detours that will impact travel throughout the day.

Major Arteries and Roadworks

A significant traffic pattern change previously scheduled for I-95 has been officially postponed. The MDTA announced that the new split traffic pattern on southbound I-95 at the MD 24 interchange (Exit 77)—originally set to begin the week of January 19—is currently delayed due to weather conditions. A new implementation date has not yet been set. For now, motorists should continue to follow existing lane configurations, though a 55 mph work zone speed limit remains in effect with automated speed enforcement active.

On the I-695 Baltimore Beltway, the next phase of the corridor project continues between Pikesville and Towson. All traffic lanes have been shifted to the right to accommodate a work zone in the median area for both the Inner and Outer Loops. Drivers should exercise extra caution when navigating the Towson and Parkville areas, as concrete barriers and narrow shoulders are present. Additionally, the reconstruction of the Belvidere Road bridge over I-95 continues to cause minor delays, with alternating single-lane traffic controlled by temporary signals on Belvidere Road.

Public Transit and Event Alerts

The Maryland Transit Administration has issued several service alerts for Friday, January 23, primarily due to the March for Life event taking place in Washington, D.C. This event will significantly impact the afternoon pick-up schedule for numerous Commuter Bus routes. Commuters using routes such as the 315, 610, 705, and 820 should prepare for adjusted boarding times and potential delays as buses navigate event-related congestion in the capital region.

Local riders within Baltimore City should be aware of the following modifications:

• LocalLink 22: A temporary detour is currently in effect for the route between Mondawmin and Bayview.
• CityLink Pink: Detours remain active for the route connecting Cedonia and the West Baltimore MARC station.
• MARC Train: While rail service is operating on a normal schedule, the waiting room at the Brunswick Station is closed today for maintenance and painting.

Weather Warning: Winter Storm Fern

Looking ahead, commuters are strongly advised to begin preparations for Winter Storm Fern, which is forecast to reach the Mid-Atlantic late Saturday. A Winter Storm Watch is in effect for Baltimore City and surrounding counties, including Baltimore, Howard, and Anne Arundel. Meteorologists are predicting six or more inches of snow and significant ice accumulation through Sunday night. While roads remain clear for today's commute, the impending storm may trigger early road pre-treatment activities tonight, which can cause minor localized slowing on major highways.