M4 motorway to be equipped with electronic freeway management system

The Federal government of Australia and the state government of New South Wales (NSW) will each contribute A$8.5m ($8.8m) to install an electronic freeway management system on the M4 motorway in Sydney to reduce traffic congestion and improve movement.

The electronic freeway management system to be installed along the motorway will include signs indicating variable speed limits to be followed, entry ramp signalling, CCTVs, digital message signs to provide live traffic updates, and signs reading land and speed restrictions.

Federal Infrastructure and Transport Minister Anthony Albanese said the authorities will be better equipped to manage traffic flow and quickly attend to any accidents reported on the motorway with the help of new technology, as well providing real-time information to motorists and reducing travel delays.

"It’s all about getting the most out of the infrastructure we’ve already built, which is a far smarter and cheaper option than simply building more and bigger roads," Albanese added.

"Indeed, if used nationwide these systems have the real potential to greatly reduce congestion and save Australians more than $500 million a year in fuel and related costs."

The technology is expected to benefit nearly 115,000 motorists and truck drivers who use the road every day by providing real-time traffic conditions and suggesting alternative routes.

NSW Roads Minister Duncan Gay said: "Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) will call for tenders soon from companies interested in designing the system, planning its rollout and securing the necessary environmental approvals."

Image: M4 motorway, to be equipped with technology, is expected to improve traffic conditions. Photo: courtesy of Beau Giles.