The intersection of Goulburn Valley Highway (Numurkah Road) and Hawkins Street is set to receive a major safety upgrade, thanks to a $5 million commitment by the Australian Government, funded through the Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program.
In Summary
- A $6.38 million upgrade of the Goulburn Valley Highway (Numurkah Road) and Hawkins Street intersection has been announced, with $5 million funded by the Australian Government.
- Works will include new traffic signals, turning lanes, pedestrian crossings, cycling improvements, and consolidation of service roads for better traffic flow and safety.
- The upgrade will address long-standing safety and access concerns, especially for pedestrians, cyclists, and users of Shepparton Sports City.
- Timing and construction details will be announced soon; Council will continue to advocate for further road safety improvements across Greater Shepparton.
The $6.38 million upgrade, which is partly funded by Council, will enhance safety and accessibility at the busy intersection, providing a safe crossing point for pedestrians and reducing current unsafe access in and around the area. The works will involve:
- Signalisation of the intersection
- A short right-turn lane and a shared through/left lane from Hawkins Street
- A left-turn deceleration lane into Hawkins Street from the north, including widening to facilitate northbound cycling intersection traffic
- Consolidation of service roads and site accesses to the west, including pedestrian crossings on all but the northern leg to improve safety and traffic efficiency.
- Providing safer u-turn movement for motorists to improve access around Shepparton Sports City
Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali, thanked the Australian Government for the funding, saying the intersection upgrade was a long time coming.
"The Numurkah Road/Hawkins Street intersection is an extremely busy one which is notoriously known for its safety issues particularly during peak travel times. These upgrades will help reduce these concerns, making it safer for motorists and pedestrians travelling through north Shepparton," he said.
"The upgrade focuses on improving accessibility for all users, particularly pedestrians and cyclists, and will have major benefits for industry and residents, including those using our nearby sporting facilities."
The upgrade works will also alleviate traffic movement concerns raised by members of the public and heavy vehicle operators. Council will communicate timing of the works and other project information once available.
Council will continue to advocate for other important road safety projects for Greater Shepparton, including additional funding for the intersection at Ford and Wanganui Roads in Shepparton.
