Tuesday, 17 March 2026
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Public Notice: Canberra Traffic, Health, and Community Service Roundup

AuthorEditorial Team
Published
2 March 2026/04:44
Section
Social
Public Notice: Canberra Traffic, Health, and Community Service Roundup
Source: Wikimedia Commons / Author: Nick-D

Public Health Alert: Measles Exposure Monitoring

ACT Health has issued a public health alert following a confirmed case of measles in a recently returned overseas traveler. While the specific exposure events occurred in mid-February, residents who visited the following locations are advised to monitor for symptoms until at least March 8, 2026. Symptoms include fever, tiredness, runny nose, sore eyes, and a characteristic non-itchy red rash.

  • Canberra Airport: Hertz Car Rental and Arrivals ground level (16 February).
  • Gungahlin Walk-In Centre: (18 February, 3:15 pm – 5:40 pm).
  • Canberra Hospital: Emergency Department waiting room (18 February, 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm).

If symptoms develop, please notify your GP or health service via telephone before attending to prevent further transmission.

Major Road and Infrastructure Updates

Significant traffic disruptions are expected on Monday, March 2, due to ongoing Light Rail Stage 2B construction and the Monaro Highway upgrade. Drivers should plan for the following conditions:

  • Commonwealth Avenue: The northbound lanes between Parkes Way and Vernon Circle, which were closed over the weekend, are scheduled to reopen at 5:00 am on Monday. However, a new southbound lane reduction will commence at 8:00 pm on Monday evening, restricting traffic to a single lane between the Parkes Way off-ramp and Albert Street until Tuesday morning.
  • Monaro Highway (Lanyon Drive): The intersection closure at Lanyon Drive is scheduled to conclude at 5:00 am on Monday following bridge barrier installation. Motorists are advised to check for residual delays during the morning commute.
  • Kambah Improvements: New road and pedestrian safety works are scheduled to begin the week of March 2. Expect localized traffic control and workers on-site near major intersections.

Enlighten Festival Traffic Management

The Enlighten Festival continues through March 9, 2026. Nightly road closures will be in effect from 4:00 pm until midnight within the National Triangle. Impacted routes include King George Terrace, King Edward Terrace, and Queen Elizabeth Terrace. Public transport diversions are in place; please refer to Transport Canberra for adjusted bus schedules.

Park Closures and Environmental Maintenance

ACT Parks and Conservation reminds visitors that several sites remain closed for essential upgrades and maintenance:

  • Woods Reserve: The campground and associated walking tracks are closed for a full facility upgrade until mid-2026.
  • Gibraltar Falls: The viewing platform and walking track remain closed for safety infrastructure improvements.
  • Nature Park Maintenance: Weed control operations targeting African lovegrass and woody weeds are active this week across various reserves. Please adhere to all on-site signage regarding chemical application areas.

Community Engagement

The ACT Government is currently seeking community input for the 2026-27 Budget. Submissions remain open for residents and local organizations. Additionally, nominations for the 2026 ACT Book of the Year are now being accepted through the artsACT website until March 31.