The Victorian Government is taking another step forward to building the missing link in the State’s road network which will ease congestion in Melbourne’s north, east and south-east. The North East Link – with an estimated cost of $10 billion – is expected to create more than 5,000 new jobs.
"This project just makes sense - more jobs, and less congestion in the north, east, and south.
"The missing link needs to be built, and we are getting on with the job," said Premier Daniel Andrews.
Under the Victorian Budget 2017/18, the first $100 million has been invested on the project for the completion of critical design, planning, and pre-construction works.
Works will begin immediately and it will be led by North East Link Authority. Extensive geotechnical investigations will begin this month at 24 sites across Melbourne’s north-eastern suburbs, providing valuable information about underground conditions – which includes the type and strength of rock under the ground as well as location of ground water.
Detailed planning and engineering work will also include field investigations, equipment procurement as well as service investigations, site establishment and upgrade works to existing infrastructure along the project route.
Once completed, the North East Link will connect the Metropolitan Ring Road (M80) at Greensborough to the Eastern Freeway and Eastlink.
"When we complete the ring road, you'll be able to drive from Ringwood to Tullamarine without stopping at a single traffic light.
"We've listened to the community and the experts. it's time to complete the missing link in Melbourne's road network," said Minister for Roads Luke Donnellan.
Detailed design and community engagement will take place throughout 2017 and procurement is expected to begin in 2018. Contracts for the project are projected to be signed in 2019, with major construction works to begin right after.
Find out more about this multi-billion dollar project by visiting the North East Link web page.
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Source: Premier of Victoria and North East Link Project