Major Northbound Closures on Commonwealth Avenue and Parkes Way Diversions

Sunday Traffic Alert: Commonwealth Avenue Shutdown

Commuters and residents traveling through the heart of Canberra today, Sunday, 15 February 2026, should prepare for significant travel disruptions. As part of the ongoing Light Rail Stage 2A works and the Commonwealth Avenue Bridge renewal project, major arterial closures are in effect that will drastically alter typical Sunday traffic patterns. The ACT Government has coordinated these works over the weekend to minimize weekday peak-hour impact, but significant delays are expected throughout today.

• Commonwealth Avenue (Northbound): A full closure is currently in place between Parkes Way and Vernon Circle. This shutdown began on Thursday evening and is scheduled to remain until 6:00 AM Monday, 16 February. Northbound motorists are being diverted via the Parkes Way on-ramp, through Lawson Crescent, Edinburgh Avenue, and onto Vernon Circle.
• Parkes Way Southbound Ramp: The ramp connecting westbound Parkes Way to southbound Commonwealth Avenue is closed until Monday morning. Southbound traffic is advised to use London Circuit East and Commonwealth Avenue as an alternative route. There is currently no impact on pedestrian access in this specific section.

Monaro Highway and Southern Arteries

Major upgrades continue on the Monaro Highway near the Lanyon Drive intersection as crews progress on the new flyover. While two lanes of traffic are being maintained in most sections, Sunday drivers may encounter localized delays and reduced speed limits near the Hume area. Additionally, pavement resurfacing at the Mugga Lane Resource Management Centre is scheduled for completion this week; however, motorists should be aware of heavy machinery operating near the entrance.

In the Tuggeranong region, motorists on Athllon Drive must remain mindful of a reduced speed limit of 40 km/h between Drakeford Drive and Vosper Street. This restriction, necessitated by utility service works, is expected to remain in place through late February. Street sweeping and maintenance are also scheduled for today in the Woden and Mawson areas, which may cause brief, localized lane narrowings.

Public Transport and Bus Diversions

Transport Canberra has confirmed that the revised 2026 construction bus network is in full operation. Due to the intensive bridge works, several Rapid and local routes are subject to diversions in the City and Parliamentary Triangle. Passengers are encouraged to check real-time apps before heading to their stops.

• Bus Priority Lane: A dedicated northbound priority lane is active on the Commonwealth Avenue Bridge for buses and emergency services only. General traffic is strictly prohibited from using this lane.
• City Interchange: Alinga Street remains restricted to bus-only traffic in specific sections to facilitate light rail track installation, meaning some taxi and delivery access points have been relocated.

Recommendations for Commuters

If you are planning to travel into the City or across the lake today, transport officials recommend allowing at least an extra 15 to 20 minutes for your journey. Using navigation tools is highly encouraged, as they reflect the current detours. Sunday remains a critical window for infrastructure progress, and your patience helps ensure the safety of construction crews working near live traffic.