Daytime Lane Closures on I-695 and New MARC Penn Line Schedules Impact Tuesday Commute

Tuesday Morning Traffic and Transit Update

Good morning, Baltimore. As we head into Tuesday, March 17, 2026, commuters should prepare for a mix of infrastructure projects and significant transit schedule shifts. While the official St. Patrick’s Day Parade took place this past Sunday, the city remains active today with ongoing roadworks on major arteries and a new timetable for rail travelers.

Major Beltway Work on I-695

The Maryland Department of Transportation continues its Transportation Systems Management and Operations (TSMO) project on the Baltimore Beltway. Drivers should expect the following impacts today:

• Northbound I-695 (Inner Loop): Between MD 122 (Security Boulevard) and MD 26 (Liberty Road), expect daytime left or right lane closures from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
• Southbound I-695 (Outer Loop): Construction crews are active between Liberty Road and Security Boulevard. While much of this work is overnight, residual lane restrictions may linger until 5:00 a.m.
• Speed Reductions: A variable speed limit is in effect. Speed limits will drop from 55 mph to 45 mph in active work zones. Maryland State Police are monitoring these zones for automated speed enforcement.

Tunnel and Bridge Advisories

Travelers using the harbor crossings should note that the I-895 Baltimore Harbor Tunnel is undergoing overnight lane closures that may impact those traveling in the very early morning hours through March 19. Additionally, roadwork is reported at the I-95 Fort McHenry Tunnel in Bore 4. Northbound shoulders remain restricted, so use caution when merging into the tunnel portals.

MARC Penn Line Schedule Changes

A major reminder for rail commuters: The MARC Penn Line transitioned to a new permanent schedule effective yesterday. These changes are part of the completion of regional trackwork projects and aim to improve long-term reliability. Key adjustments include:

• Train 554: Now departs Baltimore Penn Station 15 minutes earlier at 5:15 a.m.
• Train 502: Earlier departure times for all stops from BWI north to Perryville.
• Train 422: Departs Washington five minutes earlier at 1:05 p.m.
• West Baltimore Stop: Regular service has been restored to Train 634.

Local Roadwork and Holiday Travel

In Towson, the waterline replacement project on MD 45 (York Road) continues near Towson University. While work is primarily focused on overnight hours, uneven pavement and temporary lane shifts remain between the Towson Roundabout and Burke Avenue. Finally, as it is St. Patrick’s Day, expect increased pedestrian activity and localized congestion near the Inner Harbor and Federal Hill throughout the evening as residents celebrate the holiday.