Major construction work on the Commonwealth Avenue Bridge is set to commence on Tuesday, initiating a series of traffic disruptions expected to last for two years. The project focuses on strengthening the bridge and widening shared paths, necessitating the closure of one span at a time, starting with the northbound side.
Temporary crossover lanes have been constructed to facilitate traffic movement onto the open side of the bridge during these closures. Before the full closure, the installation of permanent bollards, signage, and line markings is required, a process anticipated to take about three days. The northbound span is scheduled to close from Thursday, weather permitting, according to the National Capital Authority (NCA).
Detailed Traffic Changes and Impact
On Tuesday, from 6:45 am to 5 pm, the Flynn Drive on-ramp to the Commonwealth Avenue Bridge will be closed to all traffic except for Transport Canberra vehicles. From 10 am Tuesday to 3:30 pm Wednesday, southbound traffic will be limited to one lane, moved to the far-right lane closest to the median. Meanwhile, all three northbound lanes and both shared paths will remain open.
After 3:30 pm on Wednesday, southbound traffic will shift to the far-left lane, remaining there for the duration of Stage 1. Northbound traffic will continue with all lanes open until Thursday morning when significant changes occur.
From 6 am Thursday, the Flynn Drive on-ramp will close for the duration of Stage 1, except for Transport Canberra vehicles. Northbound traffic, including buses, will be reduced to one lane on the northbound bridge, moving to the far-left lane. The shared path on this side will also close for Stage 1.
Public and Commuter Advisory
The NCA advises road users to allow extra travel time, consider traveling outside peak hours, or explore alternative routes. Bus passengers will also face changes, with Transport Canberra set to release a new timetable on February 2, coinciding with the start of the school term.
“The road network will be monitored, and we will work closely with the ACT Government to regularly communicate about impacts and alternate routes,” stated the NCA. “We recognize this is going to be disruptive and are committed to completing works as efficiently and safely as possible.”
Lake users will also be affected as most construction occurs either inside the bridge deck or beneath the bridge, conducted from barges. Sections of the lake beneath the bridge will close gradually as work progresses, with specific timings to be shared on the project page and directly with the Lake User Group.
Context and Historical Parallels
The Commonwealth Avenue Bridge, a vital artery for Canberra’s traffic, has undergone various maintenance projects since its opening in the 1960s. This latest renewal is part of a broader strategy to modernize infrastructure and improve safety and accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists.
Historically, infrastructure projects of this scale have often led to significant traffic disruptions, but they are essential for long-term urban development and safety improvements. Similar projects in other Australian cities have demonstrated the importance of thorough planning and communication to minimize public inconvenience.
Looking Ahead
The renewal of the Commonwealth Avenue Bridge is a critical component of Canberra’s infrastructure development plan, aimed at accommodating future growth and enhancing the city’s transport network. As the project progresses, the NCA and local authorities will continue to engage with the public, providing updates and addressing concerns to ensure a smooth transition during this period of change.
Residents and commuters are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and adjust their travel plans accordingly to mitigate the impact of these necessary works.
