Melbourne’s $333.5m Road Upgrades to Boost Safety and Cut Congestion
In a significant move to tackle congestion and enhance safety in Melbourne’s burgeoning western suburbs, the Australian and Victorian Governments have jointly committed $333.5 million to two pivotal road projects.
This investment underscores a concerted effort to future-proof the region’s infrastructure amidst rapid population growth.
Werribee Main Road – Princes Freeway Interchange Upgrade
The Werribee Main Road – Princes Freeway Interchange is set for a comprehensive overhaul aimed at improving traffic flow and safety. Key components of this upgrade include:
- Intersection Enhancements:
- Installation of traffic lights at the Ison Road and Werribee Main Road junction.
- Construction of a new roundabout at the Princes Freeway exit ramp to Wests Road.
- Addition of traffic signals at the Princes Freeway entry ramp and Werribee Main Road intersection.
- Implementation of traffic lights at the William Thwaites Drive and Werribee Main Road intersection.
- Capacity Expansion:
- Addition of an extra lane on the Werribee Main Road bridge spanning the Princes Freeway.
- Upgrades to the city-bound entry ramp onto the Princes Freeway.
These enhancements aim to alleviate bottlenecks and reduce hazardous queuing during peak hours, benefiting the approximately 10,000 motorists who navigate this interchange daily. The anticipated outcome is a reduction in peak travel times by over 10 minutes each day.
Ballan Road Intersection Upgrade in Wyndham Vale
In Wyndham Vale, the Ballan Road Intersection is poised for significant improvements to bolster safety and connectivity. The planned upgrades encompass:
- Intersection Overhaul:
- Replacement of the existing roundabout at McGrath, Ballan, and Greens roads with a traffic light-controlled intersection.
- Installation of traffic lights at the Ballan Road and McGrath Road (south) intersection.
- Pedestrian and Cyclist Infrastructure:
- Construction of new pathways to enhance walking and cycling connectivity around the intersection.
These modifications are designed to streamline traffic flow and provide safer routes for pedestrians and cyclists, addressing long-standing safety concerns in the area.
Broader Infrastructure Initiatives
These projects are part of a larger strategy to upgrade Melbourne’s western road network. The Western Roads Upgrade, for instance, is a comprehensive program aimed at transforming the arterial road network in Melbourne’s western suburbs to meet demand, reduce congestion, and increase productivity.
Additionally, the West Gate Tunnel Project is underway to provide an alternative river crossing to the West Gate Bridge, further easing congestion and improving freight access to the Port of Melbourne.
Economic and Employment Impact
The combined investment in these road upgrades is expected to generate approximately 1,624 jobs, providing a significant boost to the local economy.
Major Road Projects Victoria has been tasked with delivering both upgrades, with construction timelines to be confirmed as detailed design plans progress.
Government Commitment
The Australian Government is investing $19.5 billion towards transport infrastructure projects in Victoria over the next decade, reflecting a strong commitment to enhancing the state’s transport network.
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan emphasized the importance of these projects, stating: “Every Victorian wants to spend less time stuck in traffic and more time with family – that’s why we’re delivering major road upgrades across Melbourne’s west and faster and safer journeys for decades to come.”
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King, added: “We are committed to working with the Victorian Government to deliver quality transport infrastructure projects that get people home faster and safer, which is why we’re investing in these crucial road upgrades at Werribee and Wyndham Vale.”
A Connected and Efficient Transport
These substantial investments in Melbourne’s western suburbs are set to significantly improve daily commutes, enhance safety, and support the region’s continued growth.
As these projects come to fruition, residents and businesses alike can look forward to a more connected and efficient transport network, paving the way for a brighter future in Melbourne’s west.
