This week, Baltimore will buzz with energy as college basketball enthusiasts flock to the city for the much-anticipated Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) Basketball Tournament, returning to CFG Bank Arena.
The tournament games are scheduled from Tuesday to Saturday. In light of this event, Baltimore’s transportation department is advising drivers to prepare for increased traffic in the downtown area, be alert to possible changes in traffic patterns, and consider planning for delays and alternative routes.
To facilitate the tournament, the city will enact specific lane closures near the arena from Tuesday through Friday, during the hours of 7 p.m. to midnight each evening:
- Closure of the left lane on Howard Street from Camden Street to Pratt Street.
- Closure of the right lane on Lombard Street from Hopkins Place to Howard Street.
- Closure of the left lane on Baltimore Street from Howard Street to Park Avenue.
- Closure of the left lane on Pratt Street from Eutaw Street to Howard Street.
These lane closures will also be in effect from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday during the championship games.
In addition, the following lanes will be closed from Monday through Friday:
- Left lane closures on Baltimore Street eastbound at Eutaw Street from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily.
- Right lane closures on Eutaw Street southbound at Baltimore Street from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day.
- Left lane closure on Guilford Avenue southbound at Baltimore Street daily from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- Guilford Avenue will be reduced to a single travel lane at all times between East Lexington Street and East Fayette Street.
- The right lane on North Charles Street will be closed full-time between Saratoga Street and Pleasant Street due to utility work.
City officials strongly encourage attendees of the CIAA tournament to take advantage of the Charm City Circulator buses, which are free to ride. The Orange Route conveniently stops at CFG Bank Arena, making transportation easy for fans.
For real-time navigation, motorists can use the Waze app to assist with detours.
Additionally, rideshare users should utilize the designated pick-up and drop-off zone located on the south side of Baltimore Street at 2 Hopkins Plaza.
