M2 (Brisbane)
M2 (Brisbane) refers to a major motorway in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. It is part of the Metroad 2 network, which connects the western suburbs of Brisbane to the city centre and other major arterial roads. The M2 designation primarily applies to the section known as the Legacy Way tunnel.
Legacy Way is a 4.6 kilometre toll road, consisting of twin two-lane tunnels running under Brisbane's inner western suburbs. It connects the Western Freeway at Toowong with the Inner City Bypass (ICB) at Kelvin Grove, providing a quicker and less congested route for motorists travelling between these areas. The tunnel significantly reduces travel time compared to surface streets.
Prior to the opening of Legacy Way, the M2 designation was associated with a different route largely following surface streets. This changed when the tunnel opened, making the tunnel the primary component of the M2 designation.
The purpose of Legacy Way, and therefore the M2 designation, is to alleviate traffic congestion on surface streets in Brisbane's inner western suburbs, including areas like Milton, Paddington, and Auchenflower. It aims to improve connectivity and accessibility for commuters and businesses in the region.
The operation and maintenance of Legacy Way is typically managed by a private company under contract with the Queensland Government. Tolls are collected electronically and contribute to the cost of operating and maintaining the infrastructure.