A project to install traffic lights and improve pedestrian safety at Eastern Beach Rd in Lakes Entrance remains in limbo with no explanation from the state or federal governments.
Member for Gippsland Darren Chester secured $4 million for the intersection from the previous Federal Government more than two years ago but work hasn’t started and the new Minister is refusing to answer basic questions on the project.
Mr Chester has repeatedly sought written advice on funding which had been allocated by the previous Federal Government for road projects but had been ignored by Federal Minister for Transport Catherine King.
“There’s been meetings with nearby business owners, engineers inspected the intersection more than four years ago and the St Brendan’s Primary School agrees the current intersection is a safety issue but we can’t get any answers from Minister King,” Mr Chester said.
“The previous government allocated $300 million in the Federal Budget for Princes Highway works and I can’t get a straight answer from Minister King regarding the amount of funding remaining, and the schedule for future works.
“After a year of increased road deaths and serious injuries, I would expect the state and federal governments to fast track road safety improvements but they are stuck in the slow lane and refusing to answer basic questions.”
