Heavy Weekend Delays on Commonwealth Avenue; Balloon Spectacular Crowds in the National Triangle

Significant Congestion and Lane Reductions Expected Today

Canberrans should prepare for a busy and potentially slow morning on the roads this Saturday, 21 March 2026. With the 40th anniversary of the Canberra Balloon Spectacular in its penultimate weekend and major light rail construction intensifying, motorists are advised to plan for significant delays, particularly in the National Triangle and the City.

Major Roadworks and Lane Closures

The most substantial impact on traffic today is on Commonwealth Avenue. As part of the Light Rail Stage 2A works and the ongoing bridge renewal project, Commonwealth Avenue northbound is reduced to just one lane between Albert Street (west) and Parkes Way. This lane reduction will remain in place throughout the weekend until 5:00 am on Monday. Motorists heading toward the City from the south should allow for at least 15 to 20 minutes of additional travel time.

Other critical road closures to note include:

• Bunda Street: A full closure remains in place between Genge Street and Scotts Crossing for precinct upgrade works. Diversions are active through the CBD.
• Majura Road and Fairbairn Avenue: Intersection upgrades are currently underway. Expect significant delays near the airport corridor with diversions in place until early April.
• Monaro Highway: Pavement construction continues at the Lanyon Drive intersection. Temporary traffic lights are in operation, and the highway may be reduced to a single lane during off-peak periods today.
• Barton Highway: While main works are moving toward completion, motorists may still encounter reduced speed limits near the intersection with William Hovell Drive due to ongoing asphalt patching.

Event Traffic: Balloon Spectacular and Markets

The Canberra Balloon Spectacular is expected to draw thousands to the Patrick White Lawns this morning. Heavy traffic is anticipated on King Edward Terrace and Queen Elizabeth Terrace from 6:00 am until approximately 10:00 am. Additionally, the Little Burley Markets will be operating at Queen Elizabeth Terrace until midday, further increasing local congestion. Parking in the National Triangle will be at a premium; if possible, utilize the Park and Ride facilities at Woden or Mawson and catch a connecting bus.

Public Transport and Bus Diversions

Transport Canberra reminds passengers that the revised bus network timetable, introduced in February to accommodate the Commonwealth Avenue Bridge works, remains in effect. Passengers should check the journey planner for updated weekend frequencies.

• Craft Beer and Cider Festival: Bus diversions are in place near Braddon and the City today due to the festival held at the Mercure Canberra.
• Bus Stop Closures: Stop 1279 in Tuggeranong remains closed until late March. Additionally, stop 4415 in Belconnen is scheduled for closure starting Monday, but preparatory site work may affect local access today.

For those attending events in the National Triangle, a free event shuttle is not operating today; however, regular Rapid services continue to service the City and Parliamentary stops. Ensure your MyWay+ card is topped up as higher-capacity buses are being deployed on major routes to manage the festival crowds.