Headaches on Commonwealth Avenue?
A Pedal Power member got in touch with us last week, asking, “What gives?” on Commonwealth Avenue between the bridge and the city centre.
For now, there is no sensible, safe off-road cycle route along or alongside Commonwealth Avenue between the Lake Bridge and London Circuit, in either direction.
During working days outside peak hours, the road lanes on Commonwealth Avenue nearest the light rail line are frequently closed so work can continue along the track and stations. This means that bike riders using the road may be mixing with slow, busy traffic in a single lane in either direction, with distractions for both riders and drivers. It can feel scary at best.
What happens if you do choose to use Commonwealth Avenue?
Going southbound on Commonwealth Avenue, once you go over the Parkes Way bridge there is no off-road option until you reach Albert Street. Alternatively, you can cross Commonwealth Avenue at London Circuit to the west side, follow the narrow footpath over Parkes Way, then turn right and follow another footpath around the fenced-off depot to the on-ramp to Jacob’s bridge. It’s no quicker than diverting from the city centre directly to Jacob’s bridge in the first place.
Alternate routes avoiding Commonwealth Avenue
To the west, going via Jacob’s bridge remains the preferred option. The contractors building the Acton Waterfront Park are doing a good job of keeping paths open through the construction site between the water’s edge and the path to Jacob’s bridge: thank you!
To the east, although Floriade is busy, the path between the Allara Street footbridge and Albert Street via Regatta Place is not normally congested. It gives riders a sensible way to divert between Commonwealth Avenue Bridge and City East. Pedal Power has not heard of anyone experiencing more than minor delays, mostly when crossing the footbridge.
In short?
When possible, it remains better to take a minor diversion to avoid Commonwealth Avenue between the city and Commonwealth Avenue Bridge. Diversion routes and options will inevitably change as works progress, but bike riding remains a great way to get around and through Canberra’s city centre!
