Major Gridlock Expected in South Boston for St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Road Race

Significant Traffic Impacts in South Boston

Commuters and residents should prepare for major travel disruptions today, Sunday, March 15, 2026, as the city hosts the South Boston St. Patrick’s Day / Evacuation Day Parade. This year’s event features a reversed 'historical' route, which is expected to create confusion for those accustomed to previous years. Traffic impacts began early this morning with the Edgerley Family South Boston Club's 5K Road Race at 9:00 AM, and the primary parade is scheduled to step off at 11:30 AM from Andrew Square.

Police have implemented strict parking bans and road closures on 22 streets across South Boston. Towing operations began at 2:00 AM to clear the route, which proceeds from Andrew Square up Dorchester Street, through Thomas Park, and eventually down East and West Broadway. Key closures that will remain in effect until approximately 6:00 PM include:

• Dorchester Avenue, from Gillette Park to Old Colony Avenue.
• West and East Broadway (full length).
• Dorchester Street, from Andrew Square to East Broadway.
• K Street, East 4th Street, and P Street.

Motorists are strongly advised to avoid the South Boston neighborhood entirely. Heavy congestion is also expected on I-93 ramps near South Bay and throughout the Seaport District as spectators transition in and out of the area.

MBTA Service Adjustments and Shuttle Info

While the MBTA is the recommended mode of travel today, riders must navigate significant service changes. Most South Station Commuter Rail lines, including the Fairmount, Franklin/Foxboro, and Kingston lines, are operating on modified schedules with increased frequency to accommodate the crowds. However, bus service in Southie is severely restricted. Routes 9 and 11 terminated service at 6:45 AM, while Routes 10, 16, and 17 are being detoured to South Bay Mall until early evening.

To help mitigate the loss of bus access, the MBTA is running a free dedicated shuttle service between South Station and South Boston from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Please note that bicycles and scooters are prohibited on all subway and commuter rail lines today to ensure maximum capacity for parade-goers.

Regional Roadwork and Overnight Closures

Outside of the parade zone, drivers should be aware of a major overnight closure on Storrow Drive. Starting at 9:00 PM tonight, Storrow Drive eastbound and Soldiers Field Road eastbound will be closed from North Harvard Street to Mugar Way for tunnel maintenance. A detour will be in place directing traffic across the Anderson Bridge into Cambridge. Additionally, travelers on the Mass Pike (I-90) should expect limited services at several rest plazas due to ongoing multi-year renovation projects that began earlier this year.