Nightly Closures on Commonwealth Avenue and Parkes Way Lead Thursday Traffic Alerts

Commuter Outlook: Thursday, 19 March 2026

Canberra commuters should prepare for a mix of daytime maintenance and significant evening disruptions this Thursday. With the Canberra Balloon Spectacular continuing to draw crowds to the lakefront and several major infrastructure projects reaching critical phases, planning your route in advance is essential for a smooth journey. While peak hour traffic is expected to follow standard patterns, significant diversions will begin shortly after the evening rush.

Major Arterial Disruptions and Night Closures

The most significant impacts will occur during the evening and overnight periods on the city's primary arteries. Road users should note the following scheduled closures:

• Commonwealth Avenue: A double lane closure will be in place northbound from Albert Street West to the Parkes Way ramps. This starts at 8:00 PM on Thursday and continues until 5:00 AM Friday. Only a single lane will be maintained, so significant delays are expected for those heading north from the Parliamentary Triangle late at night.
• Parkes Way: The westbound on/off ramp from Parkes Way onto Commonwealth Avenue southbound will be fully closed from 10:00 PM Thursday until 4:00 AM Friday. Detours will be in place, and motorists are advised to use London Circuit as an alternative route.
• Monaro Highway: Pavement construction remains active at the Lanyon Drive intersection. Northbound commuters will encounter temporary traffic lights at the intersection. During off-peak hours, the highway may be reduced to a single lane in both directions to facilitate the movement of heavy machinery.

Local Roadworks and Suburb Maintenance

Daytime and evening works are scheduled across several districts today. Key areas to monitor include:

• Dickson: Antill Street will undergo resealing with lane closures between Phillip Avenue and Cowper Street from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM. Expect localized congestion during the middle of the day.
• Belconnen Way: Westbound lane closures are scheduled for 500 meters before Gungahlin Drive from 8:00 PM tonight. There will be no access to Gungahlin Drive westbound during these works, with detours directed through local streets.
• Mitchell: Night works will affect Flemington Road (lane closures near Sandford Street) and Baillieu Court (full road closure) from 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM respectively.
• City Center: Bunda Street remains closed between Genge Street and Scotts Crossing for ongoing upgrades. Additionally, Northbourne Avenue remains restricted to two lanes each way near Vernon Circle for the Raising London Circuit project.

Public Transport and Early Morning Alerts

Transport Canberra has confirmed nightly diversions for Route 56 until the conclusion of tonight’s service. From 8:00 PM, bus stops 1772 and 2941 on Newcastle Street will be closed. Passengers are redirected to alternative stops on Gladstone Street.

Early morning commuters should also stay alert for increased pedestrian and vehicle activity near the lake. The Canberra Balloon Spectacular is ongoing, and traffic around the Parliamentary Triangle and Lady Denman Drive will be heavy between 6:00 AM and 9:00 AM. Please drive with extra caution in these areas due to the high volume of spectators.