Presidents' Day Travel: Roosevelt Bridge Detours and Crystal City Metro Closure in Effect

Holiday Travel and Major Disruptions in the District

As the District observes Presidents' Day today, Monday, February 16, 2026, commuters and holiday travelers should prepare for significant changes to the regional transportation network. While typical rush-hour congestion may be lighter due to federal holiday closures, major infrastructure projects and holiday service schedules will create substantial hurdles for those navigating the city.

Major Road Alert: Roosevelt Bridge Ramp Closure

The most significant impact for drivers today is the newly implemented traffic pattern on the Theodore Roosevelt Bridge. Following the start of major repairs yesterday, the bridge’s capacity has been reduced from three lanes to two in each direction. Crucially, the Arlington Blvd (US Route 50) eastbound ramp to the bridge is now completely closed. This closure is expected to last until early June 2026.

• Detour: Drivers coming from Arlington Blvd should reroute to the Arlington Memorial Bridge.
• Alternative: DDOT suggests utilizing the Francis Scott Key Memorial Bridge to the Whitehurst Freeway as an alternate path into Northwest D.C.

Metrorail Service and Crystal City Closure

WMATA is operating on a Weekend/Holiday schedule today, meaning trains will run from 5 a.m. to midnight but with less frequency than a standard weekday. Travelers on the Blue and Yellow lines face the most significant disruption:

• Crystal City Station Closed: The station is closed today as part of a 10-weekend project to construct a new entrance.
• Shuttle Buses: Free shuttle buses are replacing trains between National Airport and Pentagon City. Commuters should allow at least 20 extra minutes for this transfer.
• Red Line: Trains are single-tracking between Silver Spring and Forest Glen. Expect 15-minute wait times between NoMa-Gallaudet U and Glenmont.

Regional Transit and Parking

VRE and Amtrak passengers should be aware of ongoing work on the Long Bridge project. While VRE is maintaining its schedule, some late-morning trains may terminate at Alexandria rather than continuing into the District. MARC trains are operating on an "R" (Reduced) schedule across all lines.

On the positive side, the District has suspended most parking enforcement today in honor of the holiday. Motorists can enjoy free parking at meters and in many public garages. However, authorities warn that enforcement remains "vigilant" for any vehicles blocking DC Streetcar tracks, which will continue to operate on its normal schedule.

Winter Weather Impacts

Finally, a northeastern winter storm is currently causing delays and cancellations at both Reagan National (DCA) and Dulles (IAD) airports. Travelers are urged to check their flight status before heading to the airport, as icy conditions and high congestion have resulted in thousands of disruptions across the regional aviation system this morning.