URGENT UPDATE: The highly anticipated Aitken Boulevard extension in Mickleham has officially opened, marking a significant milestone in Melbourne’s infrastructure development. This $44 million project enhances connectivity in the city’s growing northern suburbs, providing a crucial link for the burgeoning Merrifield community.
Construction on the 3.2-kilometer extension, which connects Donnybrook Road to Mt Ridley Road, began in early 2022 and aimed for completion this year. As of July 15, 2023, the road is now open to traffic, greatly improving commute times for locals heading into Craigieburn. Residents can now enjoy travel times as short as six minutes to major destinations.
The newly opened section serves as a vital gateway to essential services and amenities, including Craigieburn Central shopping centre, Craigieburn Train Station, Hume Anglican Grammar, Mount Ridley College, and the popular Splash Aqua Park and Leisure Centre. This enhancement directly addresses the rapid population growth in Melbourne’s outer northern suburbs, supporting the increasing demand for improved transport connections.
Community leaders and developers have expressed their support for the extension. Glenn Herring, president and coach of the Merrifield Panthers sporting association, stated, “The extension has significantly reduced travel time, especially when heading to training sessions in Craigieburn. It’s now a more direct and reliable route, saving around 10 minutes per trip. Not having to deal with the congestion at the Donnybrook Road and Hume Freeway bridge during peak times has been a huge relief.”
The Aitken Boulevard extension is not only beneficial for daily commuters but also crucial for emergency services and future public transport routes. This development underscores the importance of strong infrastructure in building vibrant, connected neighborhoods in Melbourne’s north.
As the community adjusts to this new route, authorities encourage residents to explore the enhanced access it provides to essential services. The extension is expected to foster better economic opportunities and improve quality of life for those in the area.
What’s next? Local officials will monitor traffic patterns and community feedback to ensure the road meets the area’s growing needs. Residents are urged to take advantage of the improved access and share their experiences as this vital infrastructure continues to transform the Merrifield community.
