Significant Delays Expected on Commonwealth Avenue as Schools Return and New Bus Network Launches

Morning Commute Overview: A Busy Start to the Week

Canberra commuters should prepare for a high-intensity morning peak this Monday, 2 February 2026. This marks the official return to school for continuing students across the ACT, significantly increasing traffic volumes on all major arterial roads. With the school term beginning, school zones are now active, and motorists are reminded to adhere to the 40 km/h speed limits in these areas between 8:00 am and 4:00 pm to ensure student safety.

Major Roadworks and Bridge Impacts

The most significant disruptions today are centered on the Commonwealth Avenue Bridge renewal project. Traffic has now been merged onto a single side of the bridge, which is expected to cause substantial congestion. Modelling from transport authorities suggests travel times could increase by up to 13 minutes for southbound travelers during the morning peak and 7 minutes in the afternoon. These delays are likely to ripple through the surrounding network, affecting Kings Avenue, Constitution Avenue, and Parkes Way.

In the city center, the western side of London Circuit remains closed between Northbourne Avenue and Edinburgh Avenue for ongoing light rail construction. Additionally, a new lane closure begins today at the Capital Circle Tunnel for essential maintenance work. This closure is scheduled to last until mid-February, so those traveling through the Parliamentary Triangle should allow extra time. Speed limits on Commonwealth Avenue and Parkes Way remain reduced to 60 km/h in construction zones.

Public Transport: New Timetable and Network Launch

Transport Canberra has officially launched its updated bus network today, Monday, 2 February 2026. This update is specifically designed to manage the impacts of the Commonwealth Avenue Bridge works. Key changes include a dedicated bus and emergency services priority lane running northbound across the bridge and a 15-minute standard frequency for Rapid bus services during the day. However, commuters should note that some local routes in Belconnen, such as the R2 and R3, have been replaced with new local services (Routes 12 and 13). If you are using the MyWay+ app, please double-check your route, as some legacy data may still be updating.

Localized Roadworks and Resurfacing

Several suburban roadworks are also scheduled to commence or continue today. In the inner south, lane closures will be in place on Anembo Street and Goyder Street from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm for asphalt patching. In the north, Gundaroo Drive will see speed reductions near Chuculba Crescent and Baldwin Drive for infrastructure entry works. On the Monaro Highway, off-peak lane closures are scheduled between the Royalla solar farm and Johnson Drive from 9:30 am to 4:00 pm. Commuters are advised to stay alert for changed traffic conditions and follow all on-site signage.