By Brendan Rees
The Federal Government has announced a $50 million funding package to upgrade two congestion hotspots in Berwick.
Casey Council has long pushed for the project which will see a $40 million upgrade to the Clyde Road intersection along the Monash Freeway.
Included in the work will be the addition of a dedicated cycling lane over the Monash Freeway.
This will be complemented by an additional $10 million upgrade to the Clyde Road intersection at Kangan Drive, to improve safety and reduce congestion for the thousands of travellers who pass through the intersection daily.
During the announcement on Wednesday 24 April, La Trobe MP Jason Woods said Clyde Road was used by tens of thousands of vehicle a day – with that number predicted to grow.
“We need this investment in order to make sure people can get the most out of each and every day,” he said.
“The other point is when you look at the issues at the hospital and people going to see sick ones – it just adds to that stress.”
Under the proposal, a new lane will be added in each direction on Clyde Road as well as a right hand turning lane on Kangan Drive.
Federal Minister for Cities, Urban Infrastructure and Population Alan Tudge said the funding had been “locked into the budget.”
“As soon as the work is planned in detail we are ready to go,” he said. “Of course, a future Labor Government could if they chose, overturn that.”
Joining Mr Woods at the announcement was City of Casey Mayor Cr Amanda Stapledon who said it was a real win for the community.
“Getting on with this upgrade will minimise disruptions for drivers and remove the notorious bottleneck stopping residents getting to work, school, and the hospital on time,” she said.
“Families will be able to spend more time with their families and helping make Casey the most liveable city.
“Council is aware the traffic is a pain point for commuters, and that is why we have been advocating the State and Federal governments to fix it – I endeavour to work with all sides of politics to see this project gets completed.”
