Significant Delays on Commonwealth Avenue and City Arteries This Tuesday

Morning Commute Overview for Tuesday, 31 March 2026

Canberra commuters should prepare for significant travel time increases this morning, particularly when traversing the central business district and crossing Lake Burley Griffin. Major infrastructure projects, including the Light Rail Stage 2A extension and the Commonwealth Avenue Bridge renewal, are currently in high-impact phases. Drivers are encouraged to allow at least an additional 15 to 20 minutes for their morning and afternoon journeys.

Major Impact: Commonwealth Avenue and Bridge Renewal

The most substantial disruption remains on Commonwealth Avenue. The northbound span of the Commonwealth Avenue Bridge is completely closed to all traffic as part of the 12-month renewal project. All vehicles are being diverted to the southbound side of the bridge, which is currently configured to handle both directions of travel. A mandatory 40km/h speed limit is in effect through the work zone.

• Southbound Lane Reductions: A specific short-section lane closure near Parkes Way is scheduled to wrap up today, 31 March. However, a broader reduction of the southbound carriageway to a single lane between Parkes Way and Vernon Circle remains in place and is expected to continue until late April.
• Barrine Drive: Access beneath the bridge is restricted to one lane between 7:00 am and 6:00 pm, with "stop and go" traffic management in place.

City Center and Northbourne Avenue Disruptions

Light Rail construction continues to reshape the city center, resulting in several long-term closures and lane reductions:

• London Circuit: The western side remains closed to regular traffic. On the eastern side, sections between Northbourne Avenue and Theatre Lane are restricted to support utility relocations.
• Northbourne Avenue: Traffic is reduced to two lanes in each direction between Alinga Street and Vernon Circle. Commuters should also be aware that right turns from Northbourne Avenue onto Alinga Street are currently prohibited.
• Bunda Street: A total closure is in effect between Genge Street and Scotts Crossing for upgrade works, with diversions through the surrounding city streets.

Arterial Roadworks and Public Transport

Outside of the city center, several other major routes are experiencing delays due to maintenance and upgrades:

• Monaro Highway: Pavement construction is ongoing. Temporary traffic lights are active at the intersection with Lanyon Drive, and off-peak lane closures may occur throughout the day.
• Majura Road: Roadworks continue at the Fairbairn Avenue intersection, with current diversions expected to remain in place until 2 April.
• Public Transport: Transport Canberra has flagged that buses traveling through the city may be delayed due to the Northbourne Avenue lane closures. The northbound Acton Waterfront bus stop and the Regatta Point stop remain closed until further notice.