Lane Shifts and Bridge Projects: Major Delays Expected on I-55 and I-270 This Thursday

Morning Commute Overview for January 22, 2026

Commuters across the St. Louis metropolitan area should prepare for a challenging drive this morning as several long-term infrastructure projects reach peak activity. With temperatures remaining low, motorists are advised to check their vehicle’s tire pressure and allow for an additional 15 to 20 minutes of travel time, particularly when traversing South City and the North County corridor.

Major Construction on I-55

The multi-year I-55 bridge rehabilitation project continues to be the primary source of congestion for those traveling between South City and South County. As of this morning, significant lane restrictions remain in place as crews work on the driving surfaces of several bridges. Key impacts include:

• Southbound I-55: Expect a single-lane closure from I-44 to north of Bates Street, and a double-lane closure from Bates Street to Weber Road.
• Northbound I-55: Traffic is restricted to a single lane from Reavis Barracks to Bayless, and two lanes are closed from Bayless to Virginia Avenue.
• Ramp Closures: The Virginia Avenue on-ramp to southbound I-55 remains closed. Additionally, the ramps from southbound I-55 to Loughborough and the Loughborough on-ramp to southbound I-55 are currently inaccessible.

I-270 and Mississippi River Crossing

In North St. Louis County, the replacement of the Chain of Rocks Bridge and the construction of the new Riverview diamond interchange are causing steady delays. Drivers should expect narrowed and shifted lanes on I-270 near the Mississippi River. The westbound exit ramp to Riverview Drive remains closed, forcing commuters to use alternate exits such as Route 367 or Lilac Avenue. These traffic patterns are expected to persist throughout the day and into the evening rush hour.

I-44 Pavement Repairs

Routine pavement maintenance has begun on sections of I-44 in South St. Louis County. Crews are currently focusing on the stretch between Route 109 and Route 141. While work is primarily scheduled for off-peak hours, the presence of heavy machinery and temporary shoulder closures can cause sudden braking and rubbernecking delays during the morning peak.

Public Transit and MetroLink Updates

Metro Transit reports that the University City-Big Bend MetroLink Station is fully operational following its recent reopening earlier this month. While rail service is running on schedule, several MetroBus routes in South City are operating with minor detours to accommodate the ongoing bridge work on I-55. Riders should check their specific route schedules for slight timing adjustments of one to two minutes.

Commuter Safety Tips

MoDOT reminds drivers to stay alert in work zones. With shifted lanes on major interstates, maintaining a safe following distance is critical. If you encounter maintenance vehicles or emergency responders, please remember to move over or slow down as required by law.