City Detours and New Timetables: Canberra Commute Update for Friday, 10 April 2026

Significant City Closures and Light Rail Construction

Commuters heading into the Canberra CBD this morning should prepare for ongoing diversions as Stage 2A of the Light Rail project continues to reshape the city south. The western side of London Circuit remains completely closed between Northbourne Avenue and Commonwealth Avenue. Additionally, sections of London Circuit East are closed between Northbourne Avenue and Theatre Lane to facilitate the relocation of underground services. These closures are expected to remain in place throughout the day, so motorists are advised to use Vernon Circle or Constitution Avenue as alternative routes.

In the heart of the shopping precinct, Bunda Street remains closed to all traffic between Genge Street and Scotts Crossing. This closure is part of ongoing public realm upgrades and is scheduled to continue until 19 April. Pedestrian access to local businesses is being maintained, but through-traffic should detour via Cooyong Street.

Public Transport: New Timetables and Reduced Fares

Transport Canberra has recently implemented targeted timetable improvements that remain in effect today. If you are catching a Rapid service (Routes 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 10) or regular routes including the 56, 57, 58, 59, and 66, please check the latest schedules. These adjustments have been made to account for the faster-than-expected travel times across the Commonwealth Avenue Bridge, ensuring services do not run ahead of schedule.

In positive news for your wallet, the monthly fare cap for all bus and light rail travel has been halved as of this week. This cost-of-living measure will remain in place through June, making Friday an ideal day to leave the car at home and utilize the network. Also, starting today, Friday, 10 April, registration officially opens for the 'Register to Ride' free shuttle services for the upcoming Anzac Day ceremonies on 25 April. Commuters interested in attending the Dawn Service are encouraged to sign up early.

Artery Updates: Monaro Highway and Commonwealth Avenue

For those travelling from the south, the Monaro Highway upgrade project continues to impact traffic flow near Hume. Temporary traffic lights are active for northbound commuters at the intersection of Lanyon Drive. Be aware that during off-peak hours today, the highway may be reduced to a single lane in both directions to allow for pavement construction. A reduced speed limit is strictly enforced through the work zone for the safety of crews.

On Commonwealth Avenue, the Bridge Renewal Project is in a critical phase. Due to recent weather delays, the current traffic arrangements—including the closure of the northbound shared path—have been extended until 15 April. Cyclists and pedestrians are being detoured to the southbound side of the bridge. Beneath the bridge, Barrine Drive is reduced to a single lane with 'stop and go' management between 7:00 am and 6:00 pm today.

Looking Ahead: Weekend Marathon Festival

While today’s commute follows the weekday pattern, be mindful that setup for the Canberra Times Marathon Festival will begin tonight. Extensive road closures in the Parliamentary Triangle and surrounding suburbs like Yarralumla and Barton will commence early Saturday morning. If you usually travel through the central basin on Saturday, start planning your detours now to avoid the major event footprint.