Major Disruptions Expected: Full Weekend Closure of Commonwealth Avenue for Light Rail Works

Major Traffic Alert: Commonwealth Avenue Total Closure

Canberra commuters and weekend travelers are advised to brace for significant disruptions as a major construction blitz for Light Rail Stage 2A hits a critical phase. Starting from the evening of Friday, 27 March, and continuing through until 5:00 am Monday morning, Commonwealth Avenue is completely closed to all traffic in both directions between Parkes Way and Vernon Circle. This closure is essential for the installation of track slabs and utility upgrades on the new light rail bridge deck over Parkes Way.

The closure includes both northbound and southbound lanes. Northbound traffic is currently being detoured via the Parkes Way on-ramp to the Lawson Crescent exit, through Edinburgh Avenue, and back onto Vernon Circle. Southbound motorists are advised to use London Circuit or the Kings Avenue Bridge as an alternative route to the Southside. While the shared paths remain open for pedestrians and cyclists, those using the bridge should expect increased foot traffic and narrowed paths near the work zones.

City Centre and Civic Impacts

Beyond the major bridge works, the city centre continues to face multiple road closures that will impact Saturday shoppers and diners. Notable disruptions include:

• Bunda Street: Remains closed between Genge Street and Scotts Crossing due to ongoing hotel development and public realm upgrades. This closure is expected to remain in place until mid-April.
• London Circuit: The western side remains closed between Northbourne Avenue and Commonwealth Avenue. Sections of the eastern side are also restricted to local delivery and emergency access only.
• Northbourne Avenue: Capacity remains reduced to two lanes in each direction between Alinga Street and Vernon Circle, causing peak-period bottlenecks even on weekends.
• Albert Street (East): The entry is scheduled to reopen at 6:00 am on Saturday morning following overnight works, providing some relief for access to the Acton Waterfront.

Regional Roadworks and Public Transport

Motorists traveling outside the city centre should also be aware of several regional projects impacting travel times today:

• Majura Road: The intersection at Fairbairn Avenue is closed for pavement reconstruction. Diversions are in place via Pialligo Avenue or the Monaro Highway.
• Monaro Highway: Ongoing upgrades near Lanyon Drive have resulted in temporary traffic lights and lane reductions. Expect delays of up to 15 minutes during peak Saturday morning travel.
• Public Transport: Multiple bus routes, including the R2 and R6, are operating on diverted routes due to the Commonwealth Avenue closure. Bus stop 1279 in Tuggeranong also remains closed for maintenance through the end of the month.

Transport Canberra encourages all residents to use journey planning apps to check real-time service updates. If you are heading into the city today, consider utilizing the Park and Ride facilities at Mawson or Mitchell and finishing your journey via the existing light rail or rapid bus network to avoid the central gridlock.