Major Commonwealth Avenue Closures and New Bus Timetables: Friday Traffic Update

Significant City Disruptions This Friday

Commuters navigating the Canberra CBD this Friday, February 13, 2026, should prepare for significant travel changes as major infrastructure projects reach critical milestones. Following a full overnight closure of Commonwealth Avenue between Parkes Way and Vernon Circle, the road is scheduled to reopen at 5:00 am Friday morning. However, residual congestion is expected throughout the morning peak as drivers adjust to ongoing lane reductions and bridge deck construction over Parkes Way.

Further disruptions will commence Friday evening. From 8:00 pm tonight, Commonwealth Avenue will be closed northbound between Parkes Way and Vernon Circle. Additionally, the Parkes Way off-ramp to Commonwealth Avenue will be completely shut. These closures are necessary for Light Rail Stage 2A works and are expected to remain in place until 5:00 am Monday morning. Southbound traffic will generally remain open with at least one lane available, but heavy delays are anticipated.

Southside and Monaro Highway Upgrades

On the Monaro Highway, the Lanyon Drive interchange project continues to reshape the southern commute. Northbound traffic has been transitioned to the eastern side of the new Dog Trap Creek Bridge. While two lanes are being maintained during peak periods to facilitate flow, speed restrictions remain in place. Commuters using Athllon Drive should also note that utility works between Drakeford Drive and Vosper Street have triggered a reduced speed limit of 40km/h, which will be strictly enforced during work hours.

New 'Construction' Bus Network in Effect

Public transport users are reminded that the new 2026 Construction Bus Network, which launched on February 2, is now the standard for all weekday travel. This timetable was designed specifically to manage the long-term impacts of the Commonwealth Avenue Bridge renewal. Key changes for Friday include:

• Rapid Services: All weekday Rapid buses are running at a 15-minute frequency until 7:30 pm.
• CBD Diversions: Due to the bridge and London Circuit works, several routes through the city are currently utilizing diversions. No stops are expected to be missed, but travel times may be longer.
• School Services: With Term 1 now in full swing, school zones are active across the territory. Dedicated school routes are operating under the updated 2026 schedule.

Commuter Advice for February 13

With the Royal Canberra Show period approaching and major city works peaking, we recommend leaving at least 15 to 20 minutes earlier than usual if your route involves the Parliamentary Triangle or the CBD. For those heading to the National Library for the Mabo Anniversary exhibition, consider using the light rail to Alinga Street and walking or using a connecting local bus to avoid the Commonwealth Avenue bottlenecks. Stay alert for updated signage and follow all directions from traffic controllers to ensure a safe commute for everyone.