Free COTA Fares During Cold Advisory; Downtown Bridge Projects Impact Key Arteries

Sunday Morning Traffic and Transit Overview

As we move through this Sunday, February 1, 2026, Columbus commuters should prepare for significant transit updates and ongoing construction impacts across the city's major corridors. While Sunday morning traffic volume remains light compared to the work week, extreme weather conditions and long-term infrastructure projects necessitate extra planning for those heading out today.

COTA Service Alert: Fares Waived

The Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) has issued a critical alert for today. Due to the current cold advisory, all COTA fares are being waived through the end of service today, Sunday, February 1. This initiative is designed to ensure all residents have access to a warm environment during travel. Additionally, several lines are operating with specific reroutes and adjustments:

• Line 75: Ongoing stop closures and reroutes are in effect on Tremont Road between Wilshire Drive and Northam Road. These closures are expected to persist through September 2026.
• Line 24: Passengers at the Easton Transit Center should note that Bay 3 remains closed for construction. Riders are advised to check bus headers as pickups and drop-offs are being shifted to available neighboring bays.
• Route 9: Minor reroutes remain in place near the intersection of Myrtle and Woodland Avenues.

Downtown Ramp Up and Interstate Construction

The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) continues its aggressive schedule for the I-70/I-71 Downtown Ramp Up project. Following the major milestone reached in late December with the opening of the new I-71 Southbound Flyover Ramp, construction has now pivoted to intense bridge work in the city's core.

Commuters should be aware of the following major impacts:

• Bridge Replacements: Work continues on the 3rd Street, 4th Street, and High Street bridges over I-70/I-71. These areas remain restricted as part of the Phase 4R/6R reconstruction, which is slated for completion in late 2026.
• I-71 Widening: On the north side, the widening project between I-270 and Park Road is active. While no full closures are scheduled for this Sunday morning, lane shifts and reduced speed limits are in effect.
• Mound Street & Fulton Street: These urban avenues are serving as primary detours for downtown access. Drivers are encouraged to use the newly opened I-70 Eastbound ramp to Fulton Street to avoid congestion near the core bridge projects.

Safety Reminder

With the ongoing cold advisory and the presence of heavy machinery in the downtown trench, road surfaces near construction zones may be unpredictable. ODOT crews are monitoring for any freeze-thaw impacts on temporary lane markings and barriers. Please allow for additional travel time and maintain a safe following distance through the orange barrel zones on I-70 and I-71.