Spring Break Patrols and Major Highway Expansions Impact Monday Commute

Morning Traffic Overview

Commuters in San Antonio should prepare for a busy Monday morning on March 9, 2026, as several major infrastructure projects reach critical phases and state-wide safety initiatives begin. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has officially launched its Spring Break and St. Patrick’s Day traffic enforcement campaign, Operation CARE, starting today. Drivers can expect a significantly higher presence of state troopers on interstates and major highways through March 17, specifically targeting speeding and distracted driving.

Major Highway Construction and Delays

The Loop 1604 North Expansion remains the primary source of congestion for North Side commuters. Segment 3, which covers the stretch from I-10 to US 281, is currently in a high-activity phase as crews work toward a projected mid-2026 completion. Drivers should anticipate narrower lanes and shifting traffic patterns between La Cantera Parkway and Stone Oak. Additionally, the I-35 Northeast Expansion (NEX) Central project is causing daily delays between North Walters Street and FM 1103. Elevated lane construction in this 20-mile corridor continues to impact both morning and evening peak travel times, with heavy machinery frequently moving near the frontage roads.

Local Road Closures and Detours

Several significant local road closures are in effect today that may require alternate routing:

• Old Fredericksburg Road: A full closure is active between Tawny Way and Mission Ledge. This closure is expected to remain in place through April 2026 as part of ongoing infrastructure improvements.
• FM 78: Single lane closures for milling and inlay work are occurring between Loop 410 and Loop 1604. This project is weather-dependent and will cause intermittent bottlenecks throughout the day.
• I-410 SB at Binz-Engleman: While the main lanes are open this morning, TxDOT has scheduled a major closure starting at 9:00 PM tonight for overpass superstructure work. Commuters planning late-night travel should prepare for detours toward FM 78.

Public Transport and VIA Updates

VIA Metropolitan Transit users are benefiting from the recently implemented frequency improvements under the Better Bus Plan. Several key routes have seen service boosts today:

• Route 17 (I-35 Express): Now running every 15 minutes during morning and evening rush hours to alleviate highway congestion.
• Route 5 (McCullough Ave): Frequency has been increased to every 30 minutes on weekdays.
• Route 64 (Alamo Ranch): Enhanced frequency is now in place for commuters traveling between downtown and the Alamo Ranch Parkway area.

Drivers on I-410 near Harry Wurzbach should also remain alert following reports of emergency activity in the area just after noon. While earlier accidents from the weekend on I-35 have been cleared, debris management near Binz-Engleman may still cause minor shoulder restrictions.