Weekend lane closures: Expect huge delays outbound

MAJOR delays of at least 90 minutes are expected on the West Gate Freeway this weekend for drivers travelling outbound with the freeway closed for crews to complete road surfacing works.

To prepare the freeway for the opening of the West Gate Tunnel Project by the end of 2025, crews are carrying out important asphalting works from late today (Friday, August 29) to 5am on Monday, September 1, with all outbound lanes and ramps on the West Gate Freeway to be closed between Williamstown Road and Millers Road.

Todd Road, Montague Street and Williamstown Road outbound entry ramps will be closed with lane closures in place from the CityLink tunnels to manage traffic entering the West Gate Bridge.

These works are crucial in completing the widening of the West Gate Freeway from eight to 12 through lanes, to deliver smoother travel and improved lane and exit access.

For motorists who must travel in the area, exit the freeway early and travel wide around the area. All detour routes will be clearly signposted.

Traffic coming out of the Domain Tunnel can exit the West Gate Freeway at Montague Street and then use Wurundjeri Way, Dudley Street, Footscray Road, Moreland Street, Whitehall Street, Francis Street and Millers Road and re-join the freeway.

Motorists can also use the Bolte Bridge and then Footscray Road, Moreland Street, Whitehall Street, Francis Street and Millers Road.

The Williamstown Road outbound exit ramp will remain open for local traffic only.

Drivers are urged to plan ahead, avoid the area if they can and allow extra travel time for significant delays of more than 90 minutes. To plan your journey, visit bigbuild.vic.gov.au.

There will be further disruptions in the coming months as crews complete tunnel entry and exit works and test the freeway’s intelligent transport systems before the West Gate Tunnel opens at the end of 2025.

“This work will take us one step closer to delivering the full benefits of the West Gate Tunnel Project by the end of this year— including more lanes, better connections and smoother, safer travel for Melbourne’s west,” VIDA Roads chie executive officer Duncan Elliott said.

“Drivers are urged to avoid the West Gate Freeway outbound this weekend with travel times to be significantly impacted due to lane closures.

“We thank drivers for their patience as we work around the clock to finish these upgrades and deliver a vital alternative to the West Gate Bridge.”