I-95 Traffic Split and Key Bridge Detours Define Sunday Commute

Planned Roadworks and Strategic Detours for Sunday, February 22

Commuters and local travelers in the Baltimore metro area should prepare for a mix of ongoing infrastructure projects and standard weekend service adjustments this Sunday, February 22, 2026. While weekend volume is typically lighter, several major projects, including the massive Key Bridge reconstruction and the I-95 Express Toll Lanes extension, are creating significant shifts in traffic patterns that require extra attention from drivers.

Major Artery Alerts: I-95 and I-695

The Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) has implemented a critical new traffic pattern on southbound I-95 near the MD 24 interchange (Exit 77). As part of the $1.1 billion extension project, southbound traffic is currently split, with one lane diverted to the left and three lanes remaining to the right of the barrier walls. This configuration is expected to remain in place through the fall. Drivers are reminded that the work zone speed limit has been reduced to 55 mph, and automated speed enforcement is active in this corridor.

On the Baltimore Beltway (I-695), work continues on the Transportation Systems Management and Operations (TSMO) project. Starting at 8:00 PM this evening, motorists should expect overnight left lane closures on the Inner Loop from Milford Mill Road to Greenspring Avenue. Additionally, in the Sparrows Point area, I-695 remains restricted to one lane in each direction as crews continue bridge repairs and pavement stabilization near the North Point Boulevard interchange.

Public Transport: MTA Service and Critical Reminders

The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) is operating on a regular Sunday schedule for Light Rail and Metro SubwayLink services. However, bus riders should be aware of localized detours affecting the LocalLink 62 and 65 routes in the Dundalk and downtown areas due to ongoing utility repairs.

• CharmCard Retirement: A critical reminder for all MTA riders—the CharmCard system will officially retire on March 1, 2026. Commuters are encouraged to transition their balances to the CharmPass mobile app or the new contactless payment systems before next week.
• MARC Train: Weekend Penn Line service is running as scheduled, though minor delays may occur due to standard track maintenance between Baltimore and Washington.

Downtown Congestion and Event Impact

Travelers heading into the city center should expect increased pedestrian and vehicle traffic near the Baltimore Convention Center on Pratt Street. The "American Craft Made" marketplace is concluding its final day, which typically increases congestion during the late morning and early afternoon hours. With the ongoing Francis Scott Key Bridge reconstruction diverting heavy truck traffic toward the I-95 and I-895 tunnels, downtown corridors may feel more congested than typical Sunday mornings. Plan for an additional 15 to 20 minutes of travel time if crossing through the Harbor Tunnel.