Major Transit Reroutes and Downtown Ramp Up Progress This Tuesday

Morning Transit and Commute Outlook

Commuters across the Columbus metropolitan area should prepare for significant transit adjustments and ongoing highway construction as we head into the morning rush today, Tuesday, February 17, 2026. While overall traffic flow remains steady, several planned infrastructure projects and transit center modifications are in effect, particularly affecting those relying on the Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) and those traveling through the downtown corridor.

COTA Service Alerts and Reroutes

Public transit riders should take note of several active alerts for today. Most notably, the Easton Transit Center is experiencing temporary reroutes due to pantograph construction on Transit Drive. From yesterday through Wednesday, February 18, lines 7, 9, 23, 24, 25, 31, 32, 34, 35, 44, and 45 will use alternate routing to enter and exit the terminal. Riders at Easton are advised to follow posted signage and allow for an extra 10 to 15 minutes of travel time.

Other notable transit impacts include:

• Line 1 (Short Turn): Rerouted through March 2 due to construction at Riverside Hospital. Stop SID 6364 remains closed.
• Line 35: Stop 7770 at Morse Road and Westerville Road is currently closed for long-term construction; passengers should use nearby stops at Dunbridge Street.
• Line 75: Ongoing reroutes and stop closures continue on Tremont Road near Wilshire Drive and Northam Road.
• High Street Impacts: Shelter removal work at West Lane Avenue and North High Street began last week, potentially affecting boarding for Line 1 passengers in the University District.

Downtown Highway and Local Roadworks

The I-70/I-71 Downtown Ramp Up project remains the primary driver of highway congestion. Currently in Phase 4R/6R, work is focused on the new ramp connections between I-70 East and Fulton Street. Commuters should expect narrowed lanes and shifting patterns on the I-70 bridge over Souder Road. Additionally, Front Street continues to operate under a two-way traffic configuration between Livingston Avenue and Mound Street to accommodate local reconstruction.

Motorists should also be aware of these long-term restrictions:

• High Street: The bridge over I-70 is limited to one lane in each direction. This restriction is expected to remain in place through 2028 as bridge reconstruction continues.
• Trabue Road: Bridge rehabilitation over the Scioto River has reduced the roadway from four lanes to two. Increased congestion is expected during peak hours between the West Side and Upper Arlington.
• U.S. 42: Southbound lanes between SR 257 and U.S. 33 are closed for resurfacing and widening. A detour is in place using SR 257 to U.S. 36.

Commuter Safety Reminders

With temperatures remaining cool this February morning, ODOT crews remind drivers to stay alert for workers in active zones, particularly near the I-71 and Broad Street interchange where urban avenue improvements are underway. Increased pedestrian activity is expected near the New Merchant Building site at North Market, where sidewalk modifications are frequent. Check your transit app before heading out to ensure real-time accuracy for your specific route.