Liam McNally
A vision for an upgrade of the Western Freeway is gaining clarity, but traffic may face temporary disruptions with the state government commencing investigation works between Melton and Caroline Springs.
Major Road Projects Victoria (MRPV) is investigating potential options for additional lanes, new and upgraded interchanges and overpasses and upgraded walking and cycling paths.
The potential upgrade would improve safety, traffic flow, freeway access and capacity to accommodate growing demand on the increasingly busy section of freeway.
The planning includes roadside technical investigations which may require traffic control measures such as temporary lane closures, stopping or lowering traffic and set speeds.
MRPV project development director Michael McClean said MRPV will work to keep any disruptions to a minimum and avoid busy periods.
“We thank the community and freeway users for their patience while we complete important investigations to inform our planning for the potential upgrade,” he said.
The Western Freeway is a critical road link, according to the state government approximately 86,000 vehicles travel the stretch between Melton and Caroline Springs each day, with this figure expected to rise to approximately 113,000 by 2031.
As reported by Star Weekly, the community has been calling out for an upgrade to the road, along with Melton council which has lobbied for additional lanes, seven interchange upgrades and a new walking and cycling path as a part of its Moving Melton Prospectus.
Last year the state and federal governments each committed $10 million to a business case to investigate upgrade options.
The business case is now under development and due to be completed by late 2024.
MRPV’s planning will help with the development of design options and confirm their scope and costs.
MRPV will provide the community and freeway users with an opportunity to provide feedback on the potential upgrade later in the year.
Melton mayor Lara Carli said the Western Freeway is an important economic driver at a metropolitan, state and federal level.
“Council has been advocating for an upgrade to the Western Highway and welcomes commitments from the state and federal governments to fund and prepare a business case. We look forward to this work commencing soon,” she said.
