Bendigo Transport Upgrades Gain Momentum: Key Progress Made This Week

The City of Greater Bendigo approved two major transport projects this week designed to improve traffic flow and commuter safety. On July 10, council unveiled plans for targeted upgrades to High Street and McIvor Highway, including the installation of new traffic signals and expanded bicycle lanes.

The timing is critical as Bendigo’s population continues to grow, driving increased vehicle use and congestion on key corridors. Transport upgrades are essential to reduce travel times, enhance road safety, and support local commerce amid the city's steady economic expansion over the past five years.

Targeted Improvements on Key Routes

High Street, a major arterial road running through Bendigo’s CBD, has seen notably increased traffic volumes during peak hours. The new plan involves replacing two sets of pedestrian crossings with coordinated traffic lights at the intersections with Pyke Street and Williamson Street, where crashes were recorded in 2025. These lights will also incorporate pedestrian countdown timers to enhance safety.

Meanwhile, the McIvor Highway, a primary route connecting Bendigo to Heathcote, is slated for road surface renewal and the addition of a dedicated 1.5-kilometre bicycle lane between the North Bendigo industrial area and Epsom. The cycling infrastructure aims to support growing demand from local workers commuting by bike, particularly from the La Trobe University Bendigo campus and nearby manufacturing hubs.

Transport Data Backs Up Expansion

Recent traffic data collected by the Regional Roads Victoria indicates that average daily vehicle counts on High Street have risen by 12.3% since 2023, with peak congestion lasting over three hours each weekday. The 2025 Bendigo Road Safety Audit recorded 38 minor and 5 serious crashes along the McIvor Highway corridor since 2021, prompting calls for improved safety measures.

Funding for the projects comes from a $7.8 million allocation in the 2026 Victorian Government regional transport budget, co-funded by the Greater Bendigo City Council. Construction is scheduled to begin in late September 2026, with completion expected by mid-2027. Traffic management plans will be implemented during construction to minimise disruption on High Street and McIvor Highway.

Residents can expect some short-term delays on High Street and sections of McIvor Highway as works commence. The council encourages commuters to plan alternative routes where possible and make use of existing public transport options such as the V/Line Bendigo train service. More information on progress and traffic updates will be available via Bendigo’s local government website and social media channels.

These developments represent a significant step toward modernising Bendigo’s transport infrastructure, supporting safer and more efficient movement for the growing population and vibrant local economy.