Overnight Ramp Closures on I-71 and Major Downtown Transit Reroutes for Monday

Morning Traffic Overview

Commuters in Columbus should prepare for a mix of overnight closures and significant public transit adjustments this Monday, February 23, 2026. While the primary morning rush hour is expected to remain largely open on the main highway stretches, several critical ramps and downtown surface streets are facing restrictions that will impact both late-night travelers and midday commuters. The ongoing 'Downtown Ramp Up' project continues to be the primary driver of these delays as crews work to modernize the I-70/I-71 interchange.

Highway Alerts and Overnight Closures

Motorists should be aware of two major overnight closures affecting the downtown loop. The ramp from I-71 northbound to I-70 westbound is scheduled to close from 9:00 p.m. tonight until 5:00 a.m. Tuesday morning. This closure mirrors the one that occurred Sunday evening and is part of the bridge and ramp reconstruction efforts. Additionally, SR 315 southbound under I-70 will also be closed during the same 9:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. window. A detour will be in place directing traffic from SR 315 southbound to I-670 eastbound, then I-71 southbound, and eventually back to I-70 westbound.

For those traveling during the midday hours, please note the following lane restrictions between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.:

• Front Street: Daily lane restrictions will be in effect over I-70 as bridge work continues.
• Fulton Street: Expect lane closures between Front Street and High Street, which may slow down access to the downtown business district.

COTA Transit and Terminal Adjustments

Public transit riders face a significant change today as the Spring Street Terminal is scheduled to close for pantograph construction. This infrastructure work is critical for the city's transitioning fleet and will impact several major routes. Riders on Lines 4, 6, 7, 10, 51, 52, and 61 should look for posted signage directing them to alternate stops in the immediate vicinity. COTA officials recommend allowing at least an extra 10 to 15 minutes for transfers.

Further north, the Easton Transit Center continues to experience reroutes due to construction on Transit Drive. Lines 7, 9, 23, 24, 25, 31, 32, 34, 35, 44, and 45 are currently using alternate paths within the center. If you are commuting to or from the Easton area, ensure you confirm your boarding bay, as many routes have been shifted to temporary locations.

Local Construction and Campus Activity

Commuters heading toward the Ohio State University campus should stay alert following the official opening of the new Wexner Medical Center hospital tower yesterday. With the 26-story facility now accepting patients, traffic volume on the western edge of campus near Cannon Drive may be higher than usual as staff and visitors adjust to the new entry points. Additionally, the Merchant Building project near North Market continues to restrict sidewalk and partial lane access on the surrounding blocks, so pedestrian commuters should plan accordingly.