Drivers are voicing frustration over deteriorating road conditions on the Calder Freeway, where significant potholes have worsened following recent heavy rainfall.
Sections of the freeway have had the left lane closed in both directions, with reduced speed limits and warning signs in place, but some commuters say no repair crews are on site.
One local resident told the Express the closures between Elphinstone and Woodend were causing frustrating delays.
“The roads are just blocked off, they’re slowing vehicles down to 60km/h, which is quite frustrating, especially when it involves heavy vehicles struggling to get up the hill,” she said.
“There are no crews anywhere working to fix the road.”
A Department of Transport and Planning spokesperson said maintenance crews were actively repairing potholes on the Calder Freeway and across Victoria’s road network, with inspections continuing as conditions changed.
“During periods of heavy rainfall or flooding like parts of the state have recently experienced, damage to our roads is expected,” the spokesperson said.
“When damage of this nature occurs, our crews will be on site as soon as possible and may need to temporarily close lanes, reduce speeds or install other safety measures.
“Our immediate focus is always on making sure the area is safe, and temporary safety measures are lifted as soon as repairs can be made.”
The spokesperson said the state government was investing a record $1.04 billion in rebuilding, repairing and resurfacing roads across the state, with 70 per cent of the funding directed to regional Victoria.
“This is the biggest roads blitz in the state’s history. We’re fixing more potholes than last year and delivering more complex rebuilding and rehabilitation works to strengthen roads for the long term,” the spokesperson said.
Drivers who identify hazards on the roads are encouraged to report them by calling 13 11 70.