Melbourne commuters still see red over city's choking congestion

24 May 2016

With Melbourne facing a growing traffic congestion crisis, RACV is again asking commuters to nominate the most frustrating locations that make them see ‘red’ with the launch of its 2016 Redspot Survey.

This year RACV has partnered with Leader Community News and 7News to collect information on congested locations that affect drivers, public transport users, cyclists and pedestrians who will ultimately nominate the top 10 worst Redspot locations.

RACV Manager Roads and Traffic, Dave Jones said with the Redspot Survey conducted every two years since 1991, RACV had detected a steady escalation in road congestion over the past decade and the issue was now at crisis point.

“Victoria is the fastest growing state in the nation.  Our choking traffic not only during the week but also on the weekend makes the news one way or the other, every week.   The problem is not going away and it’s imperative the locations that cause the most frustration and grief for commuters are fixed.

“Fixing these Redspots is about improving liveability for all Victorians well into the future.  We need road users to be our eyes and ears to let us know what spots experience the longest delays and traffic grid lock. 

Mr Jones said the answers provided by 8,500 Victorians in the 2014 survey helped secure more than $1.5 billion to improve Redspots across the state.

“The 2014 worst location for congestion was the Chandler Highway Bridge.  $110 million has been committed by the state government to build a new six lane bridge, which will vastly improve the flow of traffic.

“Also in the top ten and a nightmare for commuters was Burke Road between Monash Freeway and Malvern Road.  The removal of the level crossing there, as part of the level crossing removal program is a huge win.”

Mr Jones said while RACV welcomed the massive funding commitments made since the last survey, there was a need for further long term investment to reduce congestion.

 “The Redspot Survey has a track record of achieving positive results but still had a long way to go. By taking a few minutes to complete the Redspot Survey anyone can help RACV make a case for ongoing local congestion busting measures, for the benefit of all Victorians.

The survey results will be analysed by RACV transport engineers and presented to VicRoads, Public Transport Victoria and local councils.  The top Redspots will be announced in mid-September 2016.  Complete the survey at redspotsurvey.com.au or call RACV on 03 9790 2863.

Attached: Top 10 Redspots 2014