Canberra’s light rail network is expanding with construction on Stage 2A now underway, extending the existing line from Civic to Commonwealth Park.

The 1.7-kilometre extension will include a new bridge over Parkes Way and three additional stops at City Edinburgh Avenue, City South, and Commonwealth Park.

Canberra is growing fast, with the population expected to reach 750,000 by mid-century. As more people move to the capital, the $577 million project, jointly funded by the federal and ACT governments on a 50-50 basis, is aimed at easing congestion.

The new extension is expected to boost housing and commercial development around the CBD and lakefront, helping to reshape the area.

With construction set to be completed by 2027, the extended light rail service will provide a direct link from Gungahlin and North Canberra to City West, the ANU, New Acton, and Lake Burley Griffin.

The project is also expected to create 1,000 jobs, providing a significant economic boost while shaping the way people move around the city.

“Light rail has proven the benefits of mass transit in Canberra,” ACT Minister for Transport Chris Steel said.

“This next stage is critical to building out the network and delivering better public transport to the rest of the city.

“Stage 2A is part of our wider vision of building a north-south light rail line to Woden, integrated with electric buses to our suburbs.”