I-695 Median Work and I-95 Traffic Splits Impact Baltimore Commutes This Thursday

Morning Commute Overview for January 22, 2026

Commuters in the Baltimore metropolitan area should prepare for a series of planned construction projects and traffic pattern shifts that may affect travel times this Thursday, January 22, 2026. While major morning and evening rush hours are expected to remain largely free of new lane closures, significant midday and overnight work on primary arteries will require extra caution and planning.

Major Construction on I-695 (Baltimore Beltway)

The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA) is continuing the next phase of the Transportation Systems Management and Operations (TSMO) project. Drivers can expect the following impacts on the Beltway today:

• I-83 to MD 43: Intermittent daytime shoulder and single-lane closures are scheduled between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. on both the Inner and Outer Loops of I-695. This work is part of the median work zone establishment between the Baltimore-Harrisburg Expressway and White Marsh Boulevard.
• Speed Enforcement: A reduced speed limit of 45 mph is in effect within the work zones. Automated speed enforcement cameras are active to ensure the safety of crews and motorists.
• Sparrows Point/Exit 44: The entrance ramp from Bethlehem Boulevard to the I-695 Outer Loop remains closed. Through traffic must use MD 158 to access the North Point Boulevard on-ramp. Additionally, pile-driving operations near the MD 157 (Peninsula Expressway) overpass may cause increased noise and vibration during daylight hours.

I-95 and I-895 Alerts

Travelers heading toward Harford County or through the Harbor Tunnel should note these specific modifications:

• I-95 Southbound at MD 24: A new traffic split is in effect at the MD 24 interchange (Exit 77). Southbound traffic is divided by barrier walls, with one lane to the left and three lanes to the right. Motorists are urged to choose their lane early and avoid sudden shifts.
• I-895 (Harbor Tunnel): Overnight lane closures were scheduled to conclude at 5:00 a.m. this morning. While lanes should be open for the morning rush, residual delays may occur near the tunnel entrances as crews clear the work zone.

Local Roadwork and Public Transit

In Baltimore County, MD 26 (Liberty Road) is undergoing asphalt patching. While most work is restricted to overnight hours (9:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m.), early morning drivers may encounter lingering single-lane patterns. Paving projects are also active on sections of MD 45 (York Road) and MD 140.

Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) users should note that the new MARC Student Saver Program is now in effect, offering 50% fare discounts for eligible students. The Metro Subway continues its transition with the first of its new railcars now in active service. Most transit lines are operating on a normal weekday schedule, though riders should check real-time signage for any residual updates following recent system maintenance.