Downtown Delays Expected for CIAA Finals; I-695 Lane Shifts Continue

Downtown Baltimore: CIAA Tournament Traffic Impact

Commuters and visitors in downtown Baltimore should prepare for significant traffic volume and specific lane closures today, Saturday, February 28, 2026, as the CIAA Basketball Tournament concludes at the CFG Bank Arena. The Baltimore City Department of Transportation has announced targeted restrictions to manage the expected crowds for the final championship games. Between 3:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m., the following lane closures will be in effect:

• Howard Street: Left lane closure from Camden Street to Pratt Street.
• Lombard Street: Right lane closure from Hopkins Place to Howard Street.
• Baltimore Street: Left lane closure from Howard Street to Park Avenue.
• Pratt Street: Left lane closure from Eutaw Street to Howard Street.

Drivers are encouraged to avoid the immediate vicinity of the CFG Bank Arena if they are not attending the event. For those traveling into the city, the Charm City Circulator’s Orange route remains a recommended alternative as it provides direct access to the arena area without the hassle of finding event parking.

Major Highway Updates: I-695 and I-95

On the Baltimore Beltway (I-695), the ongoing Transportation Systems Management and Operations (TSMO) project continues to affect traffic patterns. Motorists traveling between I-70 and MD 43 (White Marsh Boulevard) should look out for narrowed lanes and shifting concrete barriers. While major work is often scheduled for overnight hours, the long-term shoulder closures and reduced speed limits in work zones remain in place throughout the weekend. State Highway Administration officials are currently focusing on the stretch from Pikesville to Towson, where traffic barriers are being moved to accommodate new infrastructure for part-time shoulder use.

Public Transit: CharmCard Retirement and MTA Alerts

The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) reminds all riders that today, February 28, is the final day to use the legacy CharmCard system. Starting tomorrow, March 1, 2026, the system will be fully retired in favor of newer payment methods like CharmPass and the updated tap-to-pay infrastructure. Passengers with remaining balances on physical CharmCards should ensure they utilize their funds today or visit the MTA Transit Store for assistance with transfers.

General Road Conditions

With temperatures expected to reach near 60 degrees today, the recent freeze-thaw cycle has accelerated the development of potholes across the city. Specifically, heavy chattering and rough patches have been reported in North Baltimore along Druid Park Drive, Falls Road, and Cold Spring Lane. Drivers are urged to maintain safe following distances and reduce speeds when navigating these stretches to avoid vehicle damage.