AN update has been provided for the Watson Street Interchange, which is now due to open six months earlier than predicted thanks to work continuing throughout what has been a relatively dry winter.
The Federal Government announced that works are now more than halfway complete at the full diamond interchange, which will deliver more direct connections to Wallan and the Wallan East industrial precinct.
In another big development, the Northern Highway intersection upgrade is also six months ahead of schedule, delivering additional lanes on the Northern Highway in both directions, a second right-turn lane from Watson Street and improved walking and cycling connections.
The upgrade will be complete to add capacity for when the Watson Street interchange opens.
More than 1100 jobs have been created from this development, with $90 million invested by the Federal Government and $85 million from the State Government.
Both freeway ramps facing north from the Hume Freeway will remain closed until mid-November.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure Catherine King said it was pleasing to see developments moving forward.
“These major upgrades will make it easier and safer for locals, families, businesses and
freight to get around Wallan, with better connections to the Hume Freeway and less time
spent in traffic,” she said.
Federal Member for McEwen Rob Mitchell said he was pleased that residents were set to see an early benefit.
“The investment in these projects is something we have been waiting for,” he said.
“Together we have patiently endured the roadworks and for these to delivered early is a
welcome reward for our community.”
Mitchell was joined on Wednesday by State Minister for Roads and Road Safety Paul Hamer, who said it was a key investment.
“This is a significant investment in Wallan that will ease congestion, improve safety and
deliver more reliable journeys as Melbourne’s north continues to grow,” he said.
State Member for Yan Yean Lauren Kathage said it was a win for Wallan families.
“We’re getting on with the job – delivering these critical projects six months early to make life
easier for families in Wallan,” she said.
It was a point echoed by State Member for Kalkallo Ros Spence.
“These important projects are on track to be delivered ahead of schedule – because
Victorians deserve better roads, sooner,” she said.