As part of its business strategy, Transurban has identified maximising the performance of operations by continuing optimization, technology-driven process improvements and operational efficiencies. Transurban believes that the traffic performance of the Burnley Tunnel is currently well below optimal, with traffic flow breakdown occurring at volumes significantly below theoretical capacity, and for volumes capable of operating at free flow on the open road sections.

Transurban recognises that the current physical conditions in the tunnel, such as tunnel geometry, lighting and coating are all potential contributors to ‘roadside friction’ and have an impact on the traffic performance of the tunnels. Transurban, therefore, wishes to maximise the operational impact of this project by incorporating the first dynamic pacemaker lighting system to guide road users on the most suitable traffic speed. 

The Burnley Tunnel Pacemaker Lighting System is part of a wider suite of Transurban initiatives to progress network optimisation, technology-driven process improvements and operational efficiencies across the CityLink asset in Melbourne. The system solution will positively influence the driver’s behaviour inside the Burnley Tunnel.

This paper and presentation will report the outcomes of this work which is underway across 2022 and 2023