Major Lane Closures on I-285 and Downtown Connector to Impact Monday Morning Commute

Monday Morning Traffic Overview

Commuters in the Atlanta metro area should prepare for a challenging start to the work week this Monday, February 23, 2026. A combination of lingering weekend roadworks and new transit alerts is expected to cause significant delays on major arteries. Most notably, the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) is concluding extensive maintenance on the Downtown Connector and the I-285 perimeter, with some lane closures scheduled to remain in place until mid-morning.

Major Interstate Closures and Roadworks

• I-285 Southbound: Expect heavy congestion over Mt. Gilead Road and past Martin Luther King Jr. Drive due to alternating double right- and left-lane closures. Similar restrictions are reported northbound near Cascade Road.
• I-75/85 (Downtown Connector): Major delays are anticipated northbound at the Capitol/Memorial Overpass and the Piedmont/Baker exit. Four right lanes have been blocked for overnight work, and while some are scheduled to reopen by 5:00 AM, heavy residual delays are likely through the peak morning hours.
• I-20 Corridors: Road maintenance continues on I-20 Westbound between MLK Jr. Drive and the I-285 interchange, with the right lane currently blocked. On I-20 Eastbound, only two lanes are open near Wesley Chapel Road.
• West Side Blasting: As part of the ongoing I-20/I-285 interchange project, motorists should be aware of potential traffic pacing on I-285 southbound near Bolton Road starting at 10:30 AM today.

MARTA and Public Transit Alerts

Public transit riders should allow for extra travel time and check for specific route changes:

• Five Points Station: The East-West center platform is restricted to southbound transfers only until 6:00 AM. Northbound passengers and those exiting the station must use the right-hand side platforms.
• Route 81 Reroute: Due to filming for the production "Where There's Smoke," Route 81 (Venetian Hills/Delowe Drive) will be rerouted between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM on Venetian Drive.
• Red Line Service: Early morning Red Line trains are operating between North Springs and Lindbergh only; passengers must transfer at Lindbergh for continued service toward the Airport.

Weather and Safety Advisory

A Cold Weather Advisory is in effect until 10:00 AM today. With wind chills expected to dip between 5 and 15 degrees, commuters are urged to dress warmly. While roads are currently dry, the extreme temperatures can affect vehicle battery performance and tire pressure. Drive with caution, especially when passing through active work zones where crews may still be clearing equipment.