Major Lane Split on I-95 Southbound and Beltway Shifts Impact Saturday Commutes

Saturday Traffic and Commute Overview

Baltimore area motorists should prepare for significant lane shifts and ongoing construction impacts this Saturday, February 7, 2026. While weekend volume is typically lighter than weekday rush hours, major long-term infrastructure projects on I-95 and the I-695 Beltway are creating new traffic patterns that require heightened driver attention. Additionally, dangerously cold temperatures are expected to persist through the weekend, potentially affecting vehicle performance and road surfaces.

Major Arteries and Roadworks

• I-95 Southbound (Harford County): A critical traffic split is currently in effect on southbound I-95 at the MD 24 interchange (Exit 77). One lane is diverted to the left and three lanes to the right of a temporary barrier wall. This pattern, which supports the reconstruction of the Winters Run bridge, includes a reduced work zone speed limit of 55 mph. Automated speed enforcement is active in this area.
• I-695 (Baltimore Beltway): Significant work continues on the Inner and Outer Loops between Pikesville and Towson. All traffic lanes have been shifted to the right to allow for a central work zone. Drivers should expect temporary shoulder and ramp closures as crews install telecommunications lines and reconstruct highway slopes.
• Belvidere Road: Reconstruction of the Belvidere Road bridge over I-95 remains a major bottleneck. Traffic is currently limited to an alternating single-lane pattern maintained by temporary signals. Motorists are encouraged to use alternate routes to avoid delays.
• I-97 Widening: Early-phase work for the I-97 widening project between Millersville and Annapolis may result in minor shoulder closures and utility work.

Public Transport and Transit Alerts

The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) is maintaining regular Saturday schedules, but riders should be aware of the following notices:

• Light Rail Service: Some segments of the Light Rail system are currently experiencing single-tracking due to scheduled maintenance. Passengers should allow for an additional 15–20 minutes of travel time.
• Upcoming Service Changes: Commuters are reminded that the Winter 2026 service adjustments take effect tomorrow, Sunday, February 8. This will include schedule and stop modifications for several CityLink and LocalLink routes.
• MARC Penn Line: While service is stable, riders are advised to exercise caution on platforms due to the extreme cold and potential for icy patches.

Commuter Safety Tips

With dangerously cold weather forecast through Sunday, the Baltimore City Snow Center remains on standby. Even in clear conditions, "black ice" can form on elevated surfaces and bridges. Ensure your vehicle has adequate anti-freeze levels and keep a winter emergency kit in your trunk if traveling through the more rural stretches of Harford or Carroll counties.