METRORail Maintenance and I-10 Elevation Work Impact Friday Houston Commute

Friday Morning Traffic Overview

Good morning, Houston. As we wrap up the work week on Friday, February 13, 2026, commuters are facing significant transit adjustments and localized freeway delays. While the major highway mainlanes remain largely open for the morning rush, a coordinated maintenance project on the METRORail system and ongoing elevation work on I-10 will require extra travel time, particularly for those heading into the Texas Medical Center or the Downtown district.

METRORail Service Disruptions: Shuttle Buses in Effect

The most significant impact to public transport users today is a major scheduled maintenance window on the METRORail system. Starting this morning and continuing through Sunday, February 15, rail service is suspended on key segments of the Red, Green, and Purple lines. To accommodate riders, METRO has deployed dedicated shuttle buses that will run every 10 minutes between the following locations:

• Red Line: Shuttle buses are replacing train service between the Northline Transit Center/HCC Station and the TMC Transit Center Station.
• Green and Purple Lines: Service is suspended between the Theater District Station and the EaDo/Stadium Station, with shuttles bridging the gap.

Commuters should keep an eye out for "Rail Shuttle" signage near the station platforms. METRO staff will be stationed at high-traffic stops to assist with transfers. Additionally, remember that as of last month, the new RideMETRO fare system is in full effect; ensure your new cards are loaded before boarding as older Q Cards are being phased out.

Major Freeway Roadworks and Closures

On the roads, the I-10 White Oak Bayou elevation project continues to be a primary source of congestion. Expect lane reductions and significant delays on I-10 Katy, both eastbound and westbound, between Heights Boulevard and the I-45 interchange. This work involves the demolition of the Studemont Street bridge, and narrow lanes are expected to persist throughout the day.

Other notable roadwork for today includes:

• Chartres Street: This downtown artery remains fully closed from Commerce Street to Runnels Street for storm sewer installation. This is an extended closure expected to last through March.
• I-610 South Loop: The eastbound exit ramp to Scott Street is scheduled for a total closure from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM today. Drivers are advised to use the next available exit and circle back via the frontage road.
• I-45 / I-10 Interchange: Watch for alternating lane closures on the connector ramps as crews continue work on the North Houston Highway Improvement Project (NHHIP).

Commuter Recommendations

For those traveling into the Medical Center, the METRORail disruptions will likely add at least 20 minutes to your journey. If you are driving near the downtown loop, consider using US-59/I-69 as an alternative to avoid the I-10 elevation work. As always, verify your specific exit status before heading out, as daily maintenance schedules are subject to change due to weather. Drive safely and have a great weekend.