Major Lane Restrictions on I-90 and I-77 Highlight Friday Morning Commute

Friday Morning Traffic Overview

Commuters across Greater Cleveland should prepare for a mix of ongoing infrastructure projects and special transit events this Friday, February 20, 2026. While weather conditions remain relatively mild for February, with temperatures expected to climb into the mid-50s, several major arterial routes continue to face significant lane restrictions and closures that will impact travel times during the morning and afternoon rushes.

Interstate 90 Construction and Lane Reductions

The major rehabilitation of I-90 remains a primary concern for those traveling between the western suburbs and downtown Cleveland. The project, which spans from Hilliard Blvd. to West Blvd., has several active impact zones that drivers should navigate with caution:

• Eastbound I-90: Traffic is reduced to three lanes between Hilliard Blvd. and Alger Rd. This restriction for pavement replacement is expected to remain in place through November 2026.
• Westbound I-90: Near McKinley Rd., the interstate is also reduced to three lanes due to ongoing drainage repairs.
• Local Bridge Impacts: Drivers using West 140th St. or Berea Rd. to access the highway should be aware of various lane restrictions under the I-90 overpasses as bridge repair work continues in these sectors through the end of the construction season.

I-77 and Wallings Road Closure

On the south side of the city, the bridge replacement project at I-77 and Wallings Rd. continues to necessitate heavy detours. Wallings Rd. itself is currently closed to all traffic between West Mill Rd. and Mill Rd. and will remain so through April 2026. Additionally:

• The I-77 southbound entrance and exit ramps at Wallings Rd. are closed for widening and bridge work.
• Recommended Detour: Commuters are advised to use Pleasant Valley Rd. as the primary alternative, utilizing Brecksville Rd. for eastbound travel and Broadview Rd. for westbound access.
• Main lanes of I-77 under the Wallings Rd. overpass are subject to various lane and shoulder closures throughout the day to accommodate bridge construction.

Public Transit: Ohio Loves Transit Week

Today marks the final day of "Ohio Loves Transit Week 2026." The Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (GCRTA) is using the occasion to highlight how its 24 million annual rides connect residents to jobs and healthcare. While the GCRTA Board recently approved a 2026 budget that includes future service reductions to address rising healthcare costs, officials have confirmed that these cuts will not be realized until Summer 2026. For today's commute, bus and rail services are operating on standard schedules, and transit riders are encouraged to participate in community advocacy events scheduled throughout the day.

Commuter Safety and Weather

With temperatures reaching an unseasonable high of 54°F today, the risk of ice is minimal; however, pavement may remain damp from overnight humidity. Drivers are reminded to maintain safe following distances, particularly in the narrowed three-lane configurations on I-90 where merging traffic from the Shoreway can cause sudden slowdowns. Keep a close watch for construction crews and specialized equipment near the I-77/Wallings Rd. interchange.