Lane Shifts on I-695 and Frigid Temperatures Impact Sunday Travel

Sunday Morning Traffic Outlook

Commuters and residents in the Baltimore area can expect a relatively quiet start to Sunday, February 8, 2026, though localized roadworks and a significant drop in temperature will require extra caution. While typical weekend light volumes are present this morning, several major infrastructure projects are moving into new phases today, impacting lane configurations on the Beltway and regional thoroughfares.

Highways and Major Arteries

The Maryland State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA) is continuing the next phase of the Transportation Systems Management and Operations (TSMO) project on the Baltimore Beltway (I-695). Motorists should be aware of the following conditions:

• I-695 (Baltimore Beltway): Long-term lane shifts remain in effect between I-83 (Baltimore-Harrisburg Expressway) and MD 43 (White Marsh Boulevard). Crews are working in the median to install concrete barriers and conduits. Additionally, starting at 8:00 PM tonight, an overnight left-lane closure is scheduled for the Inner Loop from Milford Mill Road to Greenspring Avenue.
• I-95/I-695 Interchange: Bridge rehabilitation work continues in southwestern Baltimore County. While most heavy work is reserved for weeknights, drivers may encounter shifted lanes and reduced speed limits of 45 mph near the interchange as crews improve the driving surfaces of ten different bridges.
• I-895 (Harbor Tunnel): While the tunnel is fully open this morning, the MDTA has scheduled overnight southbound tunnel closures beginning tomorrow. Drivers planning late-night trips should prepare for two-way traffic in the northbound tunnel starting Monday evening.
• Bay Bridge (US 50/301): For those traveling toward the Eastern Shore, scheduled lane closures and traffic pattern changes for the week of February 8 begin today. Expect off-peak delays during maintenance windows.

Public Transportation and Weather Alerts

The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) is operating all systems on a standard Sunday schedule. However, regional travelers should note that ongoing Purple Line construction near the Silver Spring Transit Center continues to impact some MARC and Metro connectivity for those commuting into the D.C. area.

Weather conditions are a primary safety concern today. A First Alert is in effect due to frigid temperatures across Central Maryland. With temperatures remaining well below freezing, maintenance crews are monitoring for any lingering damp spots on bridge decks and overpasses that may have iced over. Drivers are encouraged to allow vehicles to warm up properly and check tire pressure, which can drop significantly in extreme cold.

Travel Advice

If you are heading out today, keep an eye on digital message boards for real-time updates on lane closures. Always move over for emergency vehicles and maintenance crews, particularly in the active TSMO work zones on I-695. For tonight's commute, plan to clear the Milford Mill area before the 8:00 PM lane restrictions begin to avoid minor delays.