The Bridge Inn Road Upgrade has hosted a free thank-you event for the community following the recent early completion of major works.
Hundreds of locals attended the celebration on Saturday 23 November, enjoying a variety of family-themed entertainment and activities.
The project team also provided a free barbecue and refreshments during the 3 hour event at Painted Hills Community Pavilion in Doreen.
The celebration was the team’s way of thanking the community for its patience and support during the project, which has delivered safer and more-reliable travel between Doreen and Mernda.
Major construction began in mid-2022 and was completed when all lanes opened in late October.
The project team completed the major works ahead of schedule, with the important milestone initially scheduled for 2025.
Crews will continue undertaking minor works including landscaping and other finishing works along Bridge Inn Road over the coming months. For the safety of crews completing these works, the speed limit will be temporarily reduced along sections of Bridge Inn Road, and there will be some lane and side-road closures at certain times.
Along with building and upgrading lanes, the project has improved key intersections, installed safety barriers and built shared walking and cycling paths.
The upgrade has also delivered the new 4 lane bridge over Plenty River and repurposed the existing historic bluestone bridge as a section of shared path for pedestrians and cyclists.
The project has also further improved pedestrian safety with the recent activation of new pedestrian-operated traffic lights near Ivanhoe Grammar School.
The upgrade will help reduce travel times, improve safety and boost connectivity to homes, businesses and local amenities including Mernda’s train station and town centre.
For more information about the upgrade, view Bridge Inn Road Upgrade.
