A full weekend closure of the Eastern Freeway is set to cause significant disruptions as major works continue, including the installation of a massive bridge structure linking to the North East Link.
From 10pm Friday 27 March to 5am Monday 30 March, the freeway will be closed in both directions between Bulleen Road and Doncaster Road. Drivers can expect delays of up to 60 minutes during peak periods, with detours in place via Thompsons, Manningham and Tram roads, as well as Doncaster and Bulleen roads.
The closure will allow crews to carry out one of the project’s most complex operations so far. Two 800 tonne cranes will lift and install a 100 metre long structure made up of 12 steel beams, weighing a combined 1,080 tonnes. These beams will form the base of elevated ramps connecting the freeway to the North East Link tunnels.
While the road is closed, crews will also complete a wide range of additional works, including asphalting, line marking, drainage upgrades, piling, traffic signal installation and barrier works. Bridge widening, pedestrian infrastructure and works across Koonung Creek Reserve and surrounding ramps will also continue.
Motorists should be prepared for changed traffic conditions across the area. Several freeway ramps will be closed, key right turns banned and sections of Doncaster Road will have no stopping restrictions. Some local streets will also be closed to help manage traffic flow.
Public transport will be affected, with changes to bus routes 906, 907 and 908, and temporary stop closures in place. Pedestrian detours will also be active in some areas.
The scale of the works means conditions such as weather may impact timing, and if needed, works may be rescheduled.
Drivers are advised to plan ahead, allow extra travel time and consider alternative routes across the weekend.
More information is on the Big Build website here.
