NO.093

Treasurer Kicks Off Works on Final Section of Geelong Bypass

The Treasurer today turned the first sod on the final section of the Geelong bypass, from the Hamilton Highway at Fryansford to the Princes Highway at Waurn Ponds.

When completed, the Geelong bypass will mean a safer and more efficient route for motorists travelling between the northern and southern areas of the greater Geelong area and areas beyond.

The final part of the project – Section 3 – will include twin 110 metre-long bridges over the Barwon River and an interchange that reconnects to the Princes Highway at Waurn Ponds.

The new roadway will comprise two lanes in each direction with a provision for a third in the future and will involve major works including moving 4.7 million cubic metres of earth.

A range of safety features including emergency stopping lanes, median safety barriers, help phones and active message signs will provide a safe journey for motorists while easing congestion on the existing arterial road network.

Once complete, motorists will avoid up to 29 sets of traffic lights between Waurn Ponds and Corio and benefit from significant travel time savings, with a 15 minute trip at freeway speeds in comparison to the existing 25-60 minutes.

The $380 million project is jointly funded, with the Australian Government contributing $186 million through the AusLink Investment Program, and $194 million provided by the Victorian Government. 

The entire Geelong bypass is scheduled for completion in 2009.

GEELONG

14 September 2007

Contact: Renae Stoikos – 0418 568 434