Real-time traffic monitoring
The Traffic Control Centre is the nerve centre of the West Gate Freeway and tunnels. Cameras monitor traffic and any issues on the road in in real-time.
This high-tech control centre combines cutting-edge technology with on-the-ground response teams to monitor and manage traffic across the West Gate Tunnel, the upgraded West Gate Freeway, the existing CityLink network and the veloway - operating 24 hours a day, every day of the year.
The 3,800 square metre facility will be staffed by network operators around-the-clock, overseeing approximately 38km of road across Melbourne’s north, west and south-east – taking in 17 kilometres of the West Gate Tunnel, elevated road above Footscray Road and West Gate Freeway, on top of the existing CityLink network.
Smart technology to keep drivers safe
The West Gate Tunnel will have state-of-the-art technology to keep drivers safe.
Operators will use real-time traffic management technology, including an extensive network of ramp signals, tunnel information signs, electronic Lane Use Management System (LUMS), over-height vehicle detection lasers and 13 variable message signs. This will ensure staff can monitor traffic in real-time, detect issues as they happen and respond to incidents that may affect traffic safety or flow.
Key features include:
- CCTV and automatic incident detection – over 900 cameras monitor traffic and detect issues in real time
- over-height vehicle detection – automatically alerts drivers if their vehicle is too tall for the tunnel
- lane-use management signs – will show speed limits and lane closures
- real-time electronic messaging signs – keeping you updated while driving
- emergency access and exits – ensures immediate help when you need it
- communication systems – includes a public address system and emergency phones
- mobile and radio reception – keeps you connected while in the tunnel
- ventilation fans – keep air fresh
- fire and water systems – ready to respond to emergencies
- maintenance tunnel beneath the road – provides 24/7 access to critical systems.
Making merging easier
Weaving and merging where vehicles enter and exit the freeway can slow down traffic.
To help, new signals on entry ramps will manage the flow of traffic getting onto the West Gate Freeway.
These regulate the flow of traffic onto the road during busy times and to keep people safe.
Pay attention to the signals and be mindful of merging traffic as you’re coming on and off the freeway.