Gridlock Alert: State of the Union Closures and Lingering Snow Impacts Disrupt DC Commute

State of the Union Security Closures in Effect

Commuters should prepare for significant disruptions today, Tuesday, February 24, 2026, as the District hosts the annual State of the Union Address. Designated as a National Special Security Event, the area surrounding the U.S. Capitol will see phased road closures throughout the day. Major arteries, including Constitution Avenue and Independence Avenue, will be heavily restricted to ensure public safety.

• Starting at 12:01 AM: First Street is closed between Constitution Avenue NW and Independence Avenue SW. Additionally, Pennsylvania Avenue is shut down between 3rd Street NW and First Street NW.
• Starting at 1:00 PM: Closures will expand to include East Capitol Street between First and 2nd Streets.
• Starting at 5:30 PM: Heavy restrictions begin on Constitution Avenue between Louisiana Avenue NW and 2nd Street NE, as well as Independence Avenue between Washington Avenue SW and 2nd Street SE.
• Parking Restrictions: "Emergency No Parking" zones are in effect. Violators on Pennsylvania Avenue (3rd to 6th Street) and 15th Street NW will be ticketed and towed starting as early as 9:30 AM.

Lingering Snow Impacts and Transit Recovery

Following yesterday's historic "bomb cyclone" snowstorm, the morning commute remains hazardous. While OPM has announced that federal agencies are Open with normal operating procedures, drivers are urged to watch for black ice and slushy conditions on side streets and overpasses. Maryland and Virginia transit partners are currently working to restore full service levels.

• Metrorail: Trains are currently operating on 30-minute intervals as crews work to clear outdoor tracks. Frequency is expected to improve by the afternoon peak, but riders should check for real-time adjustments.
• Metrobus: Service remains limited. Priority is being given to hospital-access routes including the D20, D40, D70, and M22. Many other routes are operating on snow detours.
• Regional Transit: Fairfax Connector is running on a modified Saturday schedule for several routes with active snow detours.

Additional Local Alerts

Beyond the security and weather disruptions, motorists should be aware of a few other notable events today. At approximately 12:00 PM, a military aircraft flyover is scheduled over Arlington National Cemetery, which may cause brief distractions for drivers on I-395 and the GW Parkway. Additionally, DC Water continues emergency sewer repairs on 22nd Street NW between Massachusetts Avenue and P Street; all lanes in this block remain closed to through traffic with local detours posted.

Commuters are advised to utilize the Metro wherever possible, though delays are inevitable. If driving, avoid the Capitol Hill corridor entirely after 1:00 PM to bypass the most severe security-related gridlock.