While the West Gate Tunnel will soon provide motorists from Melbourne’s west with a second Yarra River crossing, the first is also getting an upgrade, with the West Gate Bridge currently undergoing maintenance works.
The $24 million maintenance program includes full inspections of key bridge structures, laying down asphalt on the road and applying protective coating to concrete piers.
The package of works is aimed at reducing the need for unplanned closures, minimising disruption to road users, and ensuring additional load restrictions for freight and heavy vehicles are not required.
Since its opening in 1978, daily traffic volumes on the West Gate Bridge have surged from 40,000 vehicles to more than 205,000 today, with an estimated 30,000 of those vehicles carrying freight to and from the Port of Melbourne.
Williamstown MP and Roads and Road Safety Minister Melissa Horne said despite the West Gate Tunnel opening in December, the almost 50 year old bridge remained as important as ever.
“As the West Gate Bridge reaches its 47th year of service, it continues to serve as a lifeline for our freight, tourism and port industries, and an essential part of the state’s transport network,” Ms Horne said.
“The West Gate Bridge is a Victorian icon, which is why we are continuing to invest in its maintenance to keep it standing strong for decades to come.”
