I-35 Lower Level Shutdown and Major Loop 410 Closures Headline Wednesday Commute

Morning Traffic Overview

San Antonio commuters should prepare for significant disruptions this Wednesday, February 11, 2026, as several major highway projects reach critical phases. The most impactful update for downtown drivers remains the ongoing weeks-long closure of the lower level of Interstate 35. Additionally, new short-term closures on Loop 410 and continued expansion work on Loop 1604 are expected to cause localized delays during both the morning and evening rush hours.

Major Arterial Alerts

• I-35 Downtown: The lower level of northbound I-35 from I-10 to I-37 remains fully closed today. This closure, which began earlier this month, is necessary for bridge joint repairs and is scheduled to continue through February 20. While the upper-level lanes remain open, they are experiencing heavy congestion. Motorists are strongly encouraged to use I-10 or I-37 as alternate routes to bypass the downtown core.
• Loop 410 East: A full closure of the I-410 East main lanes at the exit ramp to Southton Road is in effect this morning, starting at 5:00 AM. Crews are working to reset concrete traffic barriers and crash cushions. Police officers are on-site to assist with traffic flow, but significant backups are expected near the South Side interchange.
• Loop 1604 North Expansion: On the city’s Northwest Side, alternating lane closures continue on the eastbound main lanes of Loop 1604 between Babcock Road and I-10. This work is part of the ongoing milling and paving operations for the North Expansion project. Drivers should expect slow-moving traffic in this segment throughout the day.

VIA Metropolitan Transit Updates

Public transport users should be aware of several service adjustments due to the widespread roadworks. VIA Metropolitan Transit reports that Route 5, Route 7, and Route 36 are currently on detour. Specifically, Route 7 (US 281 Stone Oak / Brooks Express) is seeing disruptions between the Brooks Transit Center and SE Military Drive.

For those interested in the future of local transit, VIA is hosting an informational pop-up event today, February 11, at the Medical Center Transit Center from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and again from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. A formal public hearing regarding proposed service improvements for May 2026 is also scheduled for 5:30 PM this evening at the Mexican American Unity Council on West Commerce Street.

Commuter Advice

Given the full closure of the I-35 lower levels and the barrier work on Loop 410, travel times may be increased by 15 to 20 minutes for cross-town trips. If you are heading into the Medical Center or the Downtown area, consider leaving earlier than usual or utilizing the upper levels of I-35 for northbound travel. Stay alert for construction crews and temporary signage in work zones.