Winter Recovery and Ongoing Major Construction: San Antonio Traffic Update

Morning Commute Overview

As San Antonio begins its commute on Thursday, January 29, 2026, the primary focus for drivers is the recovery from this week's significant winter weather event alongside several major ongoing infrastructure projects. While the extreme cold warnings from earlier in the week have expired, public works crews continue to monitor overpasses and bridges for lingering slick spots. Commuters are advised to allow an extra 15 to 20 minutes for their morning routes, particularly on the Northeast and Northwest sides of the city.

Major Construction and Highway Alerts

The I-35 Northeast Expansion (NEX) Central project continues to be the most significant disruptor for local traffic. Several long-term closures remain in effect as crews work on the elevated lane structures:

• I-35 Northbound (Exit 174A): The exit for FM 1518 and Evans Road remains closed as part of the ongoing reconstruction. Drivers should continue to use the Schertz Parkway exit as the primary detour. This closure is part of a multi-month project expected to continue through the spring.
• I-35 Walzem to Petroleum Drive: Median reconstruction work has shifted lane patterns between Walzem Road and Petroleum Drive. Expect narrowed lanes and a reduced speed limit in this corridor.
• Loop 1604 North Expansion: Nightly periodic closures are scheduled for the eastbound mainlanes of Loop 1604 from Lookout Road to the IKEA-RBFCU Parkway. These closures typically occur from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. for bridge deck work. Drivers should also note that the Lookout Road intersection at Loop 1604 may experience staggered closures through the end of the week.

Public Transportation and Transit Updates

VIA Metropolitan Transit has returned to a full service schedule following the recent weather-related disruptions. However, riders should be aware of the 2026 "Better Bus Plan" adjustments that went into effect earlier this month. These changes include the retirement of several older routes, such as Route 243 (Flores/Pleasanton) and Route 296 (Vance Jackson), which have been replaced by more frequent service on optimized corridors.

• Monster Jam Park & Ride: Commuters who planned to use the Park & Ride for rescheduled events should note that services originally slated for this week were moved to late March due to the recent storm.
• Fare-Free Recovery: VIA's temporary fare-free service to local resilience hubs and warming centers has concluded, and standard fare collection has resumed for all bus and VIAtrans services.

Safety Reminders

With temperatures stabilizing, the main risk for drivers today is the heavy congestion around construction zones. Avoid distractions and maintain a safe following distance, especially in the "cattle chute" segments of I-35. If you encounter maintenance crews on the shoulder, remember that Texas law requires you to move over or slow down.