Main Yarra Trail Reopens; Evening Bus Replacements for Werribee Line

Morning Commute Update: Thursday, 2 April 2026

Good morning, Melbourne. Commuters heading into the city today can expect a relatively clear run on the major freeway networks, though several local projects and scheduled evening maintenance will impact travel times. The headline for today is a significant reopening for the cycling community in the north-east, balanced by planned service changes on the rail network starting this evening.

Major Road and Pedestrian Alerts

• Main Yarra Trail Reopening: In a major milestone for the North East Link project, the Main Yarra Trail along AJ Burkitt Reserve and Banksia Park is scheduled to safely reopen today, Thursday, 2 April. The trail had been closed as a precaution while tunnel boring machines (TBMs) operated directly below. With the machines having completed over 80% of their journey toward Bulleen, the area has been deemed safe for public use once again.
• CBD Footpath Closures: Those navigating the southern end of the CBD should note a partial eastern footpath closure on Market Street, between Flinders Street and Flinders Lane. The closure is in effect from 6:00 am until midnight tonight to facilitate the installation of portable facilities for an upcoming public event.
• Westernport Road, Heath Hill: Road rehabilitation works continue today with lane closures expected during daylight hours. This impact is localized between Phillips Road and Mount Lyall Road, but motorists should plan for minor delays.
• Altona Structural Works: Maintenance at Maddox Drain remains ongoing. While through-traffic is maintained, drivers should be alert for construction vehicles and adjusted speed limits through the work zone.

Public Transport Disruptions

• Werribee Line: Commuters planning to travel late tonight should be aware that buses will replace trains between Newport and Werribee from 8:30 pm until the final service. This is part of essential infrastructure maintenance. PTV recommends allowing at least 30 minutes of extra travel time for those using the replacement bus services.
• Southern Cross Station: The long-term escalator upgrade program continues. Commuters are encouraged to follow directional signage within the station, as certain access points to platforms remain restricted.
• Frankston Line: While train services are running, significant precinct works continue at Mordialloc and Aspendale as part of the level crossing removal project. Access to station platforms may be altered, so please allow a few extra minutes for your transfer.

Major Project Updates

In the eastern suburbs, the Suburban Rail Loop (SRL) site in Burwood remains under 24-hour operation. While most work is confined to the site compound, commuters on the Burwood Highway may notice increased truck movements as materials are transported to and from the tunnel assembly area. Additionally, remediation works are continuing at the AJ Burkitt Reserve oval following the TBM passage, with hydroseeding expected to commence later this week as the project moves toward handing the grounds back to the local council later this month.