Five Points Transfers Reopen Amid Entry Closures; Lane Shifts Impact I-285 West Side

Morning Commute Overview

Atlanta commuters can expect a relatively typical Friday morning rush today, February 20, 2026, though localized construction projects and transit renovations will dictate travel times. With the 2026 Winter Olympics coverage dominating local screens, early morning traffic on the Downtown Connector is building steadily, particularly near the Grady Curve. Commuters coming from the northern suburbs should watch for shifting lane patterns as the Transform 285/400 project enters its final finishing stages.

Major Highway and Roadwork Alerts

The Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) continues to make progress on several high-priority projects that may affect your drive today:

• I-285/I-20 West Interchange: On the west side of the Perimeter, ongoing utility and foundation work for the new flyover ramps is causing significant lane shifts. While traffic pacing at Bolton Road typically occurs mid-morning on weekdays, heavy equipment remains near the shoulder. Expect slower speeds between Exit 52 and Exit 49.
• I-285 Top End: Motorists traveling between Roswell Road and Ashford Dunwoody Road should be alert for new collector-distributor lane configurations. As the "Transform 285/400" project nears completion, signage updates may cause brief hesitation in traffic flow near the Glenridge Connector.
• Local Resurfacing: Expect minor delays in Midtown and Buckhead due to citywide resurfacing efforts. Specifically, work near Spring Street and Piedmont Road may result in intermittent single-lane closures throughout the day.

MARTA and Public Transit Updates

For those utilizing MARTA today, there is a significant update regarding the Five Points Station rehabilitation:

• Five Points Access: The Forsyth Street entrance remains the only operational entry point for the station. Entrances at Peachtree Street, Alabama Street, and the federal tunnel are closed for the ongoing canopy deconstruction.
• Platform Transfers: As of this week, the East-West Center Platform has fully reopened to all transfers. This should streamline the connection between the Blue/Green and Red/Gold lines. However, be advised that some stair and escalator sets are currently closed for ceiling and tile replacement.
• Fare System: Be prepared for the systemwide rollout of the "Better Breeze" contactless payment gates. Several stations, including Lindbergh and Doraville, are currently undergoing equipment testing.

Evening Event Traffic

Traffic is expected to swell in the Downtown and Midtown areas starting at 5:00 p.m. for the ATL Global Innovation Weekend Kickoff. Additionally, those heading to District Atlanta for evening events or the Masquerade in the SEC District should allow for an extra 15 to 20 minutes of travel time due to increased pedestrian activity and limited street parking.