MILESTONE: The Eastern Distributor turns 20 (1999)

Source: McCabe, K. "Freeing up east's road jams tonight". The Sunday Telegraph, December 19: 48.

This month, the Eastern Distributor will celebrate 20 years of service to Sydney motorists. The motorway was opened on December 19, 1999 although the on and off ramps at William Street did not open until July 23 2000.

The opening of the Eastern Distributor also led to significant changes in traffic flow in inner Sydney. South Dowling Street was reduced from three lanes to two in each direction while Crown and Bourke Streets were restored into two way streets. Crown Street had fed northbound traffic while Bourke Street carried southbound traffic.

This was not welcomed by motorists, some of whom refused to initially pay the one way toll ($3) and continued their old habits believing that there would be a "rat run" on offer. Traffic changes placed priority on local traffic and increased travel time for the "rat runners". Some were not aware of the changes and had to make long detours to reach their destination.

It did lead to rethinking on whether or not toll free routes should offered to motorists. Now it is an  expectation that one should be provided e.g. Parramatta Road acts as a free alternative to the M4 and Westconnex Motorways.

For others, the new motorway was a blessing which meant no longer needing to drive through inner Sydney streets to reach the city or cross the harbour. They could avoid up to 17 traffic lights.

Below is some media coverage from The Daily Telegraph. 

Source: Lipari, K. 1999. "The lights are green, but nobody's moving". The Daily Telegraph, December 24: 6. 

Source: Trute, P. & Luff D. 1999. "Long way home for toll dodgers: But it's a smooth run on the motorway. The Daily Telegraph, December 21, 4 & 5.