Fulton Hogan was contracted by VicRoads to widen and upgrade the Monash Freeway (M1) between Warrigal Road, Chadstone and Koo Wee Rup Road, Pakenham.

The project scope included the construction of 30km of new traffic lanes, supply and placement of 180,000 tonnes of asphalt, widening eight pairs of bridges, supply and installation of 73 gantries including 38 portal gantries up to 60m long, widening 13 freeway entry ramps and the installation of Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS).

A number of environmental and community initiatives were implemented on the project, including the use of 70,000 tonnes of 20mm Class 4 recycled crushed concrete, Green Pipe material – which is 100% recycled plastic milk containers as replacement for concrete drainage pipes, and the creation of a 50-metre long community mural under the freeway on Sweeney Drive, Casey.

The project was completed 11 weeks ahead of schedule, resulting in A$21 million of economic benefit to the community and A$6 million saving in freight costs.