School Zones Return and New V/Line Timetables: Albury Traffic Update for February 2

School Zone Speed Limits Reinstated

As Monday, 2 February 2026, marks the official start of Term 1 for schools across the region, Albury commuters are reminded that 40km/h school zones are back in effect. Drivers should expect a significant increase in pedestrian activity and local traffic volume, particularly around major educational hubs in North and West Albury. NSW Police have launched a state-wide road safety operation to coincide with the school return. Motorists can expect an intensified police presence, with mobile speed cameras and marked patrols targeting school zones to ensure the safety of students and families. Every vehicle stopped during this operation will also be subject to preliminary breath testing as part of a broader commitment to road safety during the high-volume first week of term.

Major Roadworks and Infrastructure Projects

While holiday road occupancy restrictions on the Hume Highway have concluded, several local infrastructure projects under the 'Building our City' initiative continue to influence traffic flow. Commuters in Lavington should remain alert to ongoing drainage reconstruction. Currently, works are concentrated between Boronia Street and Tamarind Street, where demolition and excavation may cause localized delays. Drivers are encouraged to use alternative routes through Mate Street or Wagga Road where possible.

Additionally, those traveling near Albury Airport should be aware of continued taxiway upgrades. While much of the heavy construction, including the Taxiway Alpha runway tie-in, is scheduled for night shifts to minimize disruption, heavy machinery and site vehicles may be active near the airport entrance during early morning hours.

Public Transport: The 'Big Switch' Timetable

Commuters utilizing rail services between Albury and Melbourne must check their schedules this morning, as the 'Big Switch' network changes are now fully operational. Following the launch on Sunday, 1 February, new V/Line timetables have been introduced for the Albury, Seymour, and Shepparton lines. Key updates include:

• Revised departure and arrival times for peak-hour services to and from Melbourne Southern Cross.
• Changes to connecting coach services that service the broader Riverina and North East Victoria regions.
• Increased integration with the Melbourne Metro Tunnel project, which may affect connecting journey times for those traveling beyond the CBD.

Commuters are advised to use the official V/Line journey planner or the mobile app to verify their specific train times, as historical departure times may have shifted by several minutes.

Commuter Advice

With the combination of school traffic, new rail schedules, and active council worksites, Albury.news recommends allowing an additional 10 to 15 minutes for your morning commute today. Stay alert to changed signage in Lavington and prioritize safety in school zones to ensure a smooth start to the 2026 school year.