Speed limits drop on M1 THE CHANGES
MOTORISTS are preparing for a slower M1 than normal today with speed limits dropping as part of the Commonwealth Games transport plan.
Speed limits will fall by 10km/h from Logan to Gaven as part of a range of measures to reduce congestion and prevent accidents during the Games.
Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said maintaining traffic flow and ensuring the safe movement of road users between Brisbane and the Gold Coast was critical to the Games’ success.
“This is going to be the biggest sporting event in Queensland’s history, and we’re pulling out all stops to make sure it goes as smoothly as possible,” Mr Bailey said.
‘‘We’d now like motorists to be aware of the next round of temporary traffic management initiatives set to commence in stages from tomorrow.”
Other temporary M1 management initiatives for the Games include:
Temporary ramp metering at the southbound Gold Coast Highway (Exit 62) and Smith Street (Exit 66) on-ramps to keep traffic moving at a constant pace as vehicles join the motorway, from mid-March.
Additional Traffic Response Units and towing vehicles to ensure incidents are cleared from the M1 as quickly as possible. These will be deployed in stages from today with all units deployed by April 4, finishing on April 15 after the closing ceremony.
Allowing vehicles carrying athletes and officials to travel along the hard shoulder of the M1, under police escort ● 110km/h down to 100km/h between the Logan Motorway Interchange (Exit 31) to Gaven (Exit 69), northbound and southbound.
● 100km/h zone to 90km/h from the M1/M3 merge at Eight Mile Plains to Logan Motorway Interchange, northbound and southbound.
where safe and at low speed, if there is severe congestion that may prevent them from arriving at an event on time. This will only occur between April 4 and April 18.
Speed enforcement measures on the M1 including trailer mounted speed cameras, which are to be managed by Queensland Police Service.
Queensland Police declined to comment on how they would enforce the speed limits during the Games.
Mr Bailey said the lower speeds would actually increase capacity. “The research showed speed reduction and ramp metering helps to increase motorway capacity, improve travel speeds during peak times and reduce the number of crashes.
‘‘Variable message signs will be used on the M1 in the leadup to the Games to increase awareness of temporary speed reductions and prepare motorists for the changed conditions.
‘‘Ramp metering using mobile traffic lights and variable message signs will commence at the southbound Gold Coast Highway and Smith Street onramps in mid-March 2018 and continue for the duration of the Games. These will only be active during peak times or when required.’’