While all the focus has been on the M1 freeway itself, a flurry of activity is being undertaken on the freeway's most important assistant - its ramps.
Work is underway on most of the 64 ramps along the corridor to be fitted with ramp metering as part of the M1 upgrade. Once fully installed, the system will ensure a smooth flow of traffic entering and travelling on the freeway.
The installation of the ramp metering system at every ramp is much more than just installing the poles and lights for the signals.
Detectors are installed below the surface on each ramp which will collect data to send to the main communications system. With this data, the system is able to monitor the amount of traffic at each ramp and as a result adjust the signals to control the number of vehicles entering the freeway.
In addition to these works, many of the ramps require widening and lengthening and at some ramps a lane will be added. At many ramps closed circuit television cameras will be installed so traffic management staff can visually monitor the ramps to ensure the system is working effectively.
Teams of crews take about eight weeks to complete the works at each ramp. To ensure their safety, concrete barriers may be installed, and speed reductions and lane closures may be required on the freeway itself. Access to the freeway via the ramps will be maintained at all times.
Most of the works will be complete on the ramps by November 2009, and the system, including the signals, should be switched on at some time after that.