Speed restrictions have been put in place on the Maltby Bypass as work on the Sneydes Road interchange project gathers pace.
The speed limit of traffic travelling in both directions will be reduced from 100km/h to 80km/h until the end of next year.
The new diamond interchange will give motorists, particularly those in Point Cook, an alternative access route to the Princes Freeway, making it easier to get to Melbourne and Geelong.
The interchange will be built in two stages, with the Melbourne-bound lanes to be constructed before work starts on the Geelong-bound lanes, followed by replacement of the bridge over the freeway.
The project is part of a $72 million government investment into transport and planning infrastructure at Point Cook and East Werribee that also includes a realignment and widening of Sneydes Road and signals at the Hoppers Lane and Sayers Road intersection, both jobs being scheduled for completion in the next 12 months.
VicRoads project director Tony Hedley asked motorists to be patient.
“The changed speed limit will have a minimal impact on travel times, with existing traffic lanes remaining in operation,” he said.
“Once the project is completed in late 2016, the speed limit will be returned to 100 km/h.
“During construction of the Princes Freeway overpass and ramps, access will generally remain unchanged on Sneydes Road and Hoppers Lane.
“However, temporary lane closures and reduced speed limits may be required to ensure the safety of road workers and road users.
“The new interchange will provide access to the new East Werribee Employment Precinct, improve traffic flow in and around Werribee and Point Cook … and reduce congestion on Palmers, Forsyth and Point Cook roads.”
