Perth motorists between Ballajura, Malaga and Beechboro will be home sooner and safer after the new Tonkin Highway flyover opens to traffic today.
The flyover at Marshall Road is part of the $821 million NorthLink WA project, a state-of-the-art transport link between Morley and Muchea.
Once complete NorthLink WA will divert 80 per cent of heavy vehicles away from Great Northern Highway.
Federal Minister for Cities, Urban Infrastructure and Population Alan Tudge said NorthLink WA was part of the Coalition's plan to bust congestion across Perth.
"The flyover will also mean easier access in the Swan Valley for residents and the 600,000 tourists who visit the area each year," Mr Tudge said.
WA Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said the flyover at Marshall Road was a welcome safety initiative as grade separation is safer than a signalised intersection, eliminating the potential for conflict and allowing for smoother traffic flow.
"As part of the overall network of changes, the Marshall Road flyover will ultimately deliver faster, safer travel times for motorists," Ms Saffioti said.
"Changes brought about by NorthLink WA will free up local roads for local traffic and give local streets back to local communities."
Cyclists and pedestrians will be diverted onto the flyover via a temporary footpath along the northern side of Marshall Road, which connects to the existing path on Beechboro Road North.
It will also separate traffic from the works, allowing construction to progress on Tonkin Highway near Marshall Road.
In coming weeks as progress continues, Hepburn Avenue traffic will also be redirected beneath new interchange bridges.
The Coalition Government has committed $821 million to the NorthLink WA project with the Western Australian Government committing $204 million.
NorthLink WA is expected to be completed by late 2019.
