Canberra drivers are bracing for a significant period of disruption as two major infrastructure projects converge, creating a perfect storm for peak-hour commuters heading into the city.
Major Road Closures Take Effect
The disruption begins in earnest from Wednesday, January 7, 2026, with the city-bound side of the Commonwealth Avenue Bridge closing completely. Simultaneously, substantial works on the Alinga Street light rail stop have already brought chaos to sections of Northbourne Avenue.
Northbourne Avenue will be closed to through traffic in both directions between Vernon Circle and Cooyong Street, with access only for local traffic under traffic control. The intersection of Northbourne Avenue and Alinga Street will also be fully closed, including all pedestrian crossings and the light rail stop itself.
Separate Projects, Combined Headache
While the endless progress of Light Rail Stage 2A is a familiar source of traffic woes, the bridge works are a separate project entirely. The Commonwealth Avenue Bridge closure is for strengthening and widening shared paths, overseen by the National Capital Authority.
"There will be significant disruptions to the road network during construction of this project and other projects occurring simultaneously," the Authority warned in a statement, urging road users to allow extra time and consider alternative travel options.
Further compounding the issue, from January 12 to January 23, Northbourne Avenue will be reduced to one lane each way between Mouat Street and Thurbon Road. Additionally, light rail services between Alinga Street and Sandford Street in Mitchell will be suspended during this period to connect the existing network to the new Stage 2A extension.
A Challenging Return to Work
The timing, while scheduled for the school holidays to minimise long-term impact, coincides with the return to work for many Canberrans. The sight of banked-up traffic on the first week back has been a jarring reminder of the city's growing pains.
Detours will funnel significant traffic onto alternative routes like the Kings Avenue Bridge. Authorities are strongly advising commuters to reconsider their travel plans, use public transport where possible, or travel outside peak hours.
For residents and workers, it's another chapter in the story of living in a developing capital city—a reminder that progress often comes with temporary inconvenience.
