The Andrews Labor Government is getting to work on upgrading a major interchange in Ballarat which will improve traffic flow and cater to the demands of the growing residential community.
The $5.6 million upgrade will build a new roundabout at the Western Freeway and Ballarat-Maryborough Road interchange, as well as install shared user path facilities for pedestrians and cyclists.
Residential growth near the interchange and commercial development in the Ballarat West Employment Zone (BWEZ) have significantly increased traffic through the interchange - which carries approximately 13,000 vehicles a day.
The upgrade is crucial to reduce risk taking behaviour and ensure planned infrastructure is matched with areas of population growth.
Crews will be on site between 7:00am to 6:00pm on weekdays, with traffic management measures including 40km/h speed limits and lane closures in place during works to ensure the safety of all road users, residents, and construction workers.
Motorists are encouraged to plan their journey, with delays of up to five minutes expected.
Works will be completed in October 2023, weather permitting.
As stated by Minister for Roads and Road Safety Melissa Horne
"This upgrade will greatly improve safety for local residents in the Ballarat region and ensure planned infrastructure matches the increasing demand, particularly near the Ballarat West Employment Zone."
As stated by Member for Ripon Martha Haylett
"As our community continues to grow, we need to do everything we can to improve our roads, reduce congestion, and keep road users safe."
As stated by Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison
"This upgrade is another great win for the city of Ballarat and its residents - not only for motorists, but for the pedestrians and cyclists who will reap the rewards of new shared user path facilities."
