Smart Freeways
Using intelligent transport technologies to improve traffic flow, safety and the overall efficiency of Perth’s freeways.
As congestion on Perth’s road network grows, we are implementing solutions to increase safety, improve efficiency and enhance the reliability of the road transport network.
We’re installing Intelligent Transport System (ITS) technologies to make better use of our existing road infrastructure. Using ITS technologies, our 24/7 Road Network Operations Centre can monitor traffic conditions and respond in real time, adjusting speed limits when needed, using ramp signals to make merging easier and closing lanes when there is an incident.
Main Roads has installed these technologies on the Kwinana Freeway northbound and will soon bring them to other parts of the freeway network.
Our next smart freeway will run southbound along Mitchell Freeway from Hester Avenue to Vincent Street and includes co-ordinated ramp signals on all 16 southbound on-ramps, new electronic signage displaying speed limits and temporary lane closures, as well as other technologies to allow for the safe operational management of the freeway.
To find out more about this project visit the Smart Freeway, Mitchell Freeway Southbound page.
Kwinana Freeway northbound, from Roe Highway to the Narrows Bridge, was opened in 2020.
Along with installing new technologies and traffic signals at five northbound on-ramps, Perth’s first smart freeway involved converting the emergency lane into an additional traffic lane, from Canning Highway to the Narrows as well as new, co-ordinated ramp signals to help improve traffic flows.
With Main Roads trained staff managing traffic on the freeway and entry ramps, traffic is flowing more smoothly and safely for road users travelling into Perth’s CBD and emergencies and incidents are being more efficiently responded to.