The route for a proposed Outer Metropolitan Ring Road that will allow a traffic light-free run from Geelong to Craigieburn in Melbourne’s outer north, has been revealed.
Designs show the 100km road would leave the Princes Freeway at Little River and provide a non-stop link with the Hume Highway.
It is aimed at easing traffic on highways and freeways in Melbourne’s growing west.
It’s anticipated up to 3,000 cars and trucks would be removed from other thoroughfares during morning peak times.
The road would be delivered in stages, with work on the first section commencing after the opening of the North East Link in 2029.
Stage one would provide a connection between the Princes Freeway and Tullamarine, with further sections to be developed gradually.
Infrastructure Victoria says the project is feasible and could be combined with a rail freight link, further supporting economic development and population growth.
However the price tag could prove to be a stumbling bock, with current estimates putting the cost anywhere between $17 billion and $35 billion.
