Bunda Street Closure and Central City Delays: Canberra Traffic Update for Tuesday, March 10, 2026

Commuter Overview for Tuesday

Commuters heading into the Canberra CBD this morning should prepare for significant changes to local traffic patterns as a major new road closure takes effect. Following the Canberra Day long weekend, the return to the regular work week brings fresh disruptions, particularly for those navigating the retail and dining precinct of Civic. While major arterial roads are currently flowing at normal capacity, localized detours are expected to add 5 to 10 minutes to travel times during the morning and afternoon peaks.

Major Alert: Bunda Street Closure Begins

Starting today, Tuesday, 10 March 2026, a significant section of Bunda Street in the city centre is closed to all vehicular traffic. The closure is situated between Genge Street and Scotts Crossing and is required for essential streetscape and utility upgrade works. This closure is expected to remain in place until approximately 19 April 2026. Motorists who typically use Bunda Street to access the Canberra Centre or transit through the city are advised to use Binara Street or Cooyong Street as alternative routes. Pedestrian access to businesses in the area will be maintained throughout the construction period.

City South and Light Rail Construction

Works for Light Rail Stage 2A and the Commonwealth Avenue Bridge renewal continue to impact the southern end of the city. Significant delays are expected on Commonwealth Avenue as southbound lanes remain reduced near Parkes Way. Construction crews are currently focused on the bridge deck pours for the new light rail bridge over Parkes Way. Additionally, Barrine Drive beneath the Commonwealth Avenue Bridge is reduced to a single lane with 'stop and go' arrangements in place between 7:00 am and 6:00 pm daily. Commuters traveling between the Parliamentary Triangle and Civic should consider using Kings Avenue Bridge to avoid the congestion on Commonwealth Avenue.

Southside and Arterial Updates

On the southside, the Monaro Highway upgrade project continues to progress near Hume. Motorists should be aware of a reduced speed limit of 40 km/h and narrow lanes around the Lanyon Drive interchange. While no full closures are scheduled for this Tuesday, heavy machinery movement may cause intermittent slows. In the north, night works are scheduled for Limestone Avenue. From 8:00 pm tonight, lane closures will be in place between Donaldson Street and Ipima Street for asphalt resurfacing. Late-night commuters should expect delays and follow all directional signage.

Public Transport and Fare Information

Transport Canberra has returned to a standard weekday timetable following yesterday’s public holiday schedule. Passengers are reminded that the new MyWay+ ticketing system is now fully operational across all bus and light rail services. If you are traveling through the city, please note that several bus stops near the Alinga Street intersection have been permanently relocated to accommodate the light rail extension works. Check the latest network maps to ensure your regular stop remains active.