The Australian Government has unlocked $11.68 million in funding to deliver improvements along the Princes Highway in Sale, Victoria.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the funding would deliver two vital local projects.
“The two works include the Princes Highway Improvements Package project and the Cunninghame Street Signalisation project, which will increase safety and improve traffic conditions for all road users, particularly freight and heavy vehicles,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.
“Investing in crucial local projects such as this is what we are doing across Australia under our record $110 billion infrastructure investment plan, which is laying the foundations for economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.”
Victorian Minister for Roads and Road Safety Ben Carroll said the upgrades would improve the reliability of the highway to support drivers throughout the region.
“These much-needed treatments will ensure motorists are well protected on our roads, thanks to this new resurfacing and signal work,” Mr Carroll said.
“We’re working to build better and safer roads right across Gippsland, which is why we’re also delivering $90 million worth of improvements throughout the region as part of this year’s road maintenance blitz.”
Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester said the funding was part of the Australian Government’s $300 million commitment to the Princes Highway corridor in Victoria.
“The Princes Highway supports thousands of vehicles per day across our region and it’s important we have a safe transport corridor,” Mr Chester said.
“Improving this section of the highway is crucial so these communities have the infrastructure necessary to support more reliable and frequent services.”
Wellington Shire Mayor Garry Stephens welcomed the federal funding approval, which is in addition to Wellington Shire Council’s $1.17 million contribution.
“This upgrade will improve safety and the amenity of the major corridor through Sale, which will not only benefit our local community but also tourists and freight haulers,” he said.
“We look forwarding to partnering with both the Australian and Victorian governments to deliver these projects.”
The works will be jointly funded, with the Australian Government committing $11.68 million, the Victorian Government $250,000 and the Wellington Shire Council a further $1.17 million.
More information on the Australian Government’s $110 billion infrastructure investment pipeline is available at investment.infrastructure.gov.au.