In a significant move, the federal government is investing $1.1 billion for a substantial revamp of Victoria's Western Freeway, aimed at improving connectivity and efficiency between Melbourne and Adelaide. This investment elevates the federal government's total commitment to the Western Freeway corridor to $2.1 billion.

 

The Western Freeway segment between Melton and Caroline Springs is used by around 86,000 vehicles a day, a number anticipated to rise to approximately 113,000 by 2031. Serving as a vital passageway for both passengers and freight, the freeway interlinks with key freight pathways across the state, including Midland, Sunraysia, Pyrenees, Henty, and Wimmera Highways.

The investment will be channelled towards enhancing capacity and safety along the freeway section spanning Melton to Caroline Springs. Upgrades will be pinpointed and prioritised through a jointly funded business case finalised by the Victorian Government in collaboration with the federal authorities.

A portion of the investment, $100 million, will be directed towards planning and initial works to enhance the intersection of the freeway at Brewery Tap Road in Warrenheip. Furthermore, $6.1 million has been allocated for reinforcing two bridges between Stawell and the South Australian border.

The federal and state governments are set to embark on bridge reinforcement initiatives at the Dimboola Bridge over the Melbourne-Adelaide Railway Line and Dadswells Bridge over the Mt William Creek Floodplain. These enhancements aim to reduce transit times, boost freight movement efficiency between rural sectors and manufacturers, foster industry expansion, and spur regional development.

Anticipated to commence in 2025 and conclude by 2026, the construction of these bridge upgrades holds promise for streamlined operations and enhanced connectivity.

Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, and Local Government, Catherine King, underscored the government's commitment to pivotal transport undertakings in Victoria, including the Melbourne Airport rail link, fixing regional and suburban roads, and strengthening of key freeways.

Ms King stated, "We’re investing $2.1 billion in the Western Freeway corridor, $7 billion in the Melbourne Airport rail link, and $1 billion in a suburban road blitz because we care about our cities, our suburbs and our regions".

 

Source: Infrastructure Magazine

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