High Street Bridge Closure and Riverside Hospital Reroutes Impact Monday Commute

Morning Commute Overview

Good morning, Columbus. As we begin the first full work week of February 2026, commuters should prepare for a mix of long-term construction projects and new transit adjustments starting today. While the major winter storm from late January has subsided, temperatures remain dangerously low, and overcast skies are expected throughout the morning. Road surfaces are largely clear, but residual icy patches may exist on secondary roads due to the overnight low of -2°F.

Major Roadworks and Arterial Delays

The I-70/I-71 Downtown Ramp-Up remains the most significant factor for those heading into the city center. Following the reopening of the Front Street bridge late last year, the High Street bridge over I-70/71 is now closed for comprehensive reconstruction. Motorists should utilize the new Front Street bridge or 4th Street as primary detours.

• I-70 Pavement Reconstruction: Westbound traffic continues to be shifted to the eastbound side of the roadway. Two lanes are being maintained in each direction, but the narrowed lanes and lack of shoulders between the Madison County line and Hilliard-Rome Road are causing typical morning bottlenecks.
• Trabue Road: Work continues on the Trabue Road bridge project. The roadway is currently reduced from four lanes to two lanes for through traffic. Expect significant delays during peak hours near the Dublin Road intersection.
• Renner Road: Eastbound traffic on Renner Road remains under a posted detour. Drivers are being sent north on Alton & Darby Creek Road to Roberts Road to bypass the active work zone.

COTA Transit Alerts and Reroutes

Several transit changes are taking effect today, Monday, February 2. Most notably, construction at Riverside Hospital has triggered a temporary reroute for Line 1.

• Line 1 (Short Turn): Starting today and continuing through March 2, the Short Turn Line 1 will be rerouted. Stop SID 6364 is officially closed. Riders should check the transit app for the nearest temporary boarding location.
• Line 75: Ongoing stop closures and reroutes continue along Tremont Road between Wilshire Drive and Northam Road. This project is expected to last through September.
• Line 35: The stop at Morse Road and Westerville Road (Stop 7770) remains closed. Commuters should use the nearby stops at Dunbridge Street or Wallingford Avenue.

Weather and Safety Reminder

With a high of only 26°F today and a 25% chance of light snow showers this afternoon, we advise all commuters to dress in layers. While the Level 3 Snow Emergency from last week has been lifted, the Central Ohio Transit Authority's cold weather advisory resulted in free fares through yesterday; however, standard fare collection has resumed as of this morning. Drive safely and allow for extra following distance in the downtown construction zones.