Stage two of road safety upgrades along The Esplanade in Lakes Entrance will begin this month.
This stage of works will see signalised pedestrian crossings installed at the post office and near McDonalds.
Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester announced $5 million from the Federal Government to upgrade The Esplanade as part of a $25 million package of works on the Princes Highway east of Sale. The state government has provided matching funding. VicRoads is managing the works.
Mr Chester said he has been advised the works will be delivered in four separate stages.
“The first stage of works was completed in December, which included intersection improvements at Laura Street, service road changes and the creation of a pedestrian crossing,” Mr Chester said.
“Stage two will commence within the next couple of weeks.
“Two signalised pedestrian crossings will be built at Barkes Avenue, near the Post Office, and to the east of Mechanics Street, near McDonalds.”
Mr Chester said stage three would see improvements to the pedestrian and cycling shared path, car parking and lighting along the foreshore from Laura Street to Myer Street. Stage three is expected to commence later this year.
“The final stage of works will involve changes to the Myer Street intersection,” Mr Chester said.
“VicRoads has been working with the community through design options and has just completed a community survey to determine the best approach.
“Based on the results of the survey and other stakeholder feedback, I’m advised VicRoads will present a final design to the community by July.”
Mr Chester said upgrades along The Esplanade would not only improve road safety, but make the visitor experience more enjoyable.
“Lakes Entrance is an iconic tourist destination that brings an estimated $6 million visitor expenditure and creates approximately 146 full-time hospitality jobs,” Mr Chester said.
“It’s important we continue to invest in community and tourism infrastructure so Lakes Entrance remains a destination of choice and continues to underpin the local tourism economy.”
