Overnight Tunnel Closures and Pothole Hazards Impact Tuesday Commute
Morning Commute Overview
As Baltimore settles back into the regular work week following the Presidents Day holiday, commuters should prepare for a mix of scheduled maintenance and seasonal road hazards. While most major highways are flowing at typical weekday volumes this Tuesday, February 17, 2026, specific construction zones and a significant increase in winter potholes are the primary concerns for local drivers.
Major Artery Updates: I-895 and I-695
The Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) has issued a traffic advisory for the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel (I-895). Overnight lane closures are scheduled to continue through February 19. If your commute begins in the very early morning hours (before 3:00 AM), expect two-way operations in a single tunnel, which can cause 15-20 minute delays. During the day, all lanes are open, but drivers should remain alert for remaining equipment near the tunnel portals.
On the Baltimore Beltway (I-695), the ongoing Transportation Systems Management and Operations (TSMO) project remains active between I-70 and MD 43 (White Marsh Boulevard). Commuters should expect intermittent shoulder closures and narrower lanes in these segments. Additionally, lane patterns on the Bay Bridge (US 50/301) have been adjusted for the week, which may affect those traveling toward the Eastern Shore.
City Street Alerts: Potholes and Resurfacing
Baltimore City Department of Transportation crews are currently prioritizing pothole repairs following recent freeze-thaw cycles. Motorists have reported significant road surface deterioration on North Avenue and segments of the Jones Falls Expressway (I-83). Drivers are urged to maintain a safe following distance to spot and avoid deep pits that have emerged over the last week.
- Roland Avenue: Resurfacing work continues between 40th Street and 34th Street as part of the Complete Streets initiative. Expect minor flagging delays.
- Harford Road: Multimodal pathway extensions south of Erdman Avenue may result in localized lane shifts.
Public Transit: MTA Maryland
The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) has returned to a regular weekday schedule for all Local Bus, Light Rail, and Metro SubwayLink services today. MARC Train service has also resumed its full weekday timetable after yesterday’s holiday reduction.
Commuters are reminded that the CharmCard phase-out is entering its final stages. With the system set to be fully retired by March 1, 2026, riders should ensure they have transitioned to the CharmPass mobile app or the new fare system to avoid delays at the gates during the morning rush.