Major new funding is required for the next stage of upgrades to the Princes Highway after the completion of the duplication between Traralgon and Sale, according to Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester.
Mr Chester said his focus had now switched to the Traralgon by-pass, Sale alternate route and a program of works to improve safety on the highway in East Gippsland.
“Gippsland motorists are now reaping most of the benefits from 43km of duplicated road and 22 upgraded intersections, with the third and final stage of the Princes Highway upgrade between Traralgon and Sale virtually complete,” Mr Chester said.
“I know it’s taken longer than hoped, but we are building a better, safer Princes Highway here in Gippsland.
“There are still some final sealing works that will occur in the next few weeks, which is why the 80km/hr limit is in place, but (subject to weather) they will be gone soon.”
Mr Chester has advocated on behalf of the Gippsland community for this critical project since his first day in Parliament and secured 80% of the funding for the duplication project from the previous Coalition Government, totalling more than $400 million.
“When you look at the old photos of the highway, it’s fair to say we have come a long way,” Mr Chester said.
“Making the journey between Sale and Traralgon safer for more than 15,000 motorists who use this stretch of road daily was the prime objective, along with improving productivity for the transport industry and boosting the visitor economy.
“A better, safer highway will save lives and provide long-term social, economic and environmental benefits for all Gippslanders, but there is always more to be done.
“There’s always more to be done, and I am already focusing on the next big challenges: securing funding to bypass Traralgon, upgrading the Sale alternate route, and improving the surface of the Princes Highway throughout East Gippsland.
“The Gippsland road network is vital for moving products to market, reducing road trauma, and supporting tourism. We need state and federal governments who understand safe transport connectivity in the regions is an essential service.”
