Major Intersection Upgrades and CBD Detours: Commuter Alert for Tuesday, 17 March

Morning Commute Update: Intersection Works and CBD Closures

Good morning, Canberra. As we head into Tuesday, 17 March 2026, commuters should prepare for several new and ongoing disruptions across the capital's road and public transport networks. While the city celebrates St. Patrick’s Day, the luck of the Irish may not extend to your travel times if you are traversing major arteries in the North or the City Centre.

Major Intersection Upgrade: Majura Road and Fairbairn Avenue

The most significant new impact for today is the intersection upgrade at Majura Road and Fairbairn Avenue. Work commenced yesterday and is scheduled to continue until early April. Motorists should expect heavy congestion during peak periods as crews install new infrastructure. Diversions are in place, but we recommend choosing an alternative route, such as the Monaro Highway or Pialligo Avenue, to avoid significant delays when heading toward the airport or the eastern suburbs.

City Centre and Commonwealth Avenue Impacts

In the CBD, the closure of Bunda Street remains in effect between Genge Street and Scotts Crossing. This project is part of ongoing hotel and streetscape upgrades and is not expected to reopen until late April. Diversions are signed, but local traffic is heavy around the Canberra Centre.

Construction for Light Rail Stage 2A and the Commonwealth Avenue Bridge renewal project continues to affect North-South travel. A southbound lane closure on Commonwealth Avenue is in effect today and will remain until the end of the month. Additionally, Barrine Drive is reduced to a single lane beneath the bridge between 7:00 am and 6:00 pm. Traffic marshals are on-site with stop-and-go arrangements, so please allow an extra 10 to 15 minutes for this crossing.

Public Transport and Regional Alerts

• Route 56 Nightly Diversions: Commuters using Route 56 should be aware that nightly diversions remain in place from 8:00 pm to 6:00 am. This impact continues through to Wednesday morning, with bus stops 1772 and 2941 on Newcastle Street currently closed during these hours.
• Tuggeranong Bus Stop Closure: Bus stop 1279 is officially closed starting this week through to 30 March. Please check the Transport Canberra app for the nearest alternative boarding point.
• Belconnen and Southside Works: In Belconnen, path network construction has begun on Kuringa Drive, which may cause minor rubbernecking delays. On the Monaro Highway, pavement works continue near Lanyon Drive with temporary traffic lights in operation during off-peak hours.

Safe travels today, Canberra. Remember to stay patient through the work zones and follow the directions of traffic controllers to ensure the safety of our road crews.