Over 1400 pieces of technology make up Perth’s new Smart Freeway Mitchell Southbound, with the technology set to be switched on before Christmas.
The smart freeway will be in full effect from Sunday, December 22nd with road sensors, on-ramp signals, CCTV cameras, incident detection sensors, digital signs and overhead gantries set to improve traffic flow and safety through large scale data collection and analysis.
It is hoped the implementation of the new technology will save commuters seven minutes during the morning peak hour rush.
The Smart Freeway Mitchell Southbound will feature:
- New traffic signals on all 16 on-ramps, helping filter traffic onto the freeway and make merging smoother and easier.
- 23 overhead gantries with lane-use and variable-speed signs to let drivers know what speed to travel, what lanes to use and if there is an incident or accident ahead.
- Digital Message Signs to inform motorists of traffic conditions in real time for safer and more reliable journeys.
The Mitchell Freeway Southbound is the second Smart Freeway in Perth, with the Kwinana Freeway Northbound opening in August 2020.
The installation of the smart freeway systems are part of the wider Mitchell Freeway transformation project which started in July 2023.
“Harnessing traffic data and responding to conditions in real time is a proven way of improving journeys on the freeway,” WA Transport Minister Rita Saffioti says.
“The new Smart Freeway on the Mitchell southbound will harness data from 1400 pieces of new technology, allowing us to better manage traffic flow during busy periods and when there are incidents on the freeway.
“Depending on where they’re travelling from, drivers can expect to save up to seven minutes during morning peak hour, which ultimately means a safer journey and less time spent in gridlock.”
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