New Boost to Tunnel Safety
31 May 2011
The southbound tunnel of the Eastern Distributor will be upgraded this week in order to improve safety and reduce illegal lane movements.
"The improvements to the southbound tunnel include the installation of a new concrete median kerb and bollards along existing unbroken line markings to physically inhibit illegal movements between the Bourke Street on-ramp/ Cross City Tunnel southbound link and Moore Park Road off-ramp," said a spokesman.
"These changes will reduce the opportunity for risky and illegal lane changes and improve safety for motorway users. As well as creating an unacceptable risk, illegal lane changes can result in delays for motorists.
"Despite the existence of 45cm plastic barriers some motorists have continued to put themselves and others at risk by making these illegal lane changes.
"The changes are supported by a detailed audit by road safety experts and have the approval of the RTA.
The work will be undertaken during planned maintenance closures that will occur this week.
"Planned night time maintenance activities are carried out to ensure the long-term continued operation of the tunnel and its operating systems," the spokesman said.
"The closure times have been planned to minimise any inconvenience to motorists. To advise motorists of the closures, surface road signage will be in place on approach to the tunnel.
"Reminders about the installation of new barriers in the tunnel will be displayed on variable message signs from now on, until motorists are familiar with the changes."