Greater Shepparton City Council has apologised for the lengthy delays on the causeway into Shepparton on Monday, due to the works at the intersection of Welsford and Fryers streets.
The intersection upgrade began on November 14 and is expected to take three to four months, with an extra right turning lane from Welsford St towards the causeway part of the works.
Council on Tuesday cited several factors for the traffic delays: the Watt Rd closure due to flooding and unexpected road repairs on Wyndham and Nixon streets requiring a lane closure heading north.
Director of infrastructure Gary Randhawa said the traffic lights had been synchronised for better traffic flow and detours would be in place during the works.
“Fencing has been installed along Welsford and Fryers streets to ensure pedestrian safety, but businesses are still accessible, including the council offices in Welsford St,” he said.
“Council sincerely apologises for the disruption that occurred on Monday and will be looking at ways to minimise future inconvenience during the intersection upgrade.”
Commuters travelling from Mooroopna to Shepparton were reminded Fryers St would be closed from 6am on Wednesday, November 16 from the Midland Hwy traffic lights to Welsford St.
Traffic will detour via High St and commuters are advised to allow up to 20 minutes extra for their trip.
In the meantime, council officers will continue to monitor the traffic flow daily to ensure traffic disruptions are minimised.
Mr Randhawa said it was unknown when the floodwaters would recede on Watt Rd — an alternative route from Mooroopna to Kialla.
“Once the floodwaters have receded then assessments of the structural integrity of Watt Rd Bridge and Toolamba Bridge can be carried out,” Mr Randhawa said.
“Until this time the road will remain closed to ensure the community’s safety.”
Information on the Welsford St redevelopment can be found at greatershepparton.com.au/council/major-projects/welsford-street-redevelopment