Farmers, freight operators and the community will soon have safer and smoother journeys on the Sunraysia Highway, with works to upgrade two intersections between Birchip and Woomelang set to start in August.
Crews will upgrade the Mcloughlans Road and Birchip-Rainbow Road intersections on the Sunraysia Highway thanks to a joint $4.16 million investment from the Australian and Victorian governments.
Both intersections are located on bends and will be remodelled to T-shaped intersections to improve visibility and allow all road users to safely enter and exit the highway.
Crews will also widen and resurface sections of the Sunraysia Highway, add a new left turn lane from the Sunraysia Highway into Birchip-Rainbow Road, build a raised median on Birchip-Rainbow Road, and install safety barriers and new street lighting at both intersections.
The new intersections will no longer be curved, meaning it will be easier for drivers travelling on Mcloughlans Road and Birchip-Rainbow Road to see vehicles travelling on the Sunraysia Highway.
The Sunraysia Highway provides a key road for both locals and our broader agricultural industry, with more than 500 vehicles using this section of the highway each day, including around 70 trucks and other heavy vehicles.
These works form part of the $68.75 million Roads of Strategic Importance - Ballarat to Ouyen corridor which is improving access along the Sunraysia Highway and is jointly funded by the Australian and Victorian governments.
Works will continue at the intersections until early 2023, with the roads to remain open and reduced speed limits in place. For more information visit regionalroads.vic.gov.auExternal Link.
As stated by Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:
"There's a mix of both heavy and light vehicles sharing this section of the highway, which is why the Australian Government is investing in this project to ensure the intersections are safe for everyone."
As stated by Victorian Minister for Roads and Road Safety Ben Carroll
"We're investing a record amount in infrastructure projects across the state and that includes in regional Victoria, ensuring the needs of our communities are funded and delivered."
As stated by State Member for Northern Victoria Mark Gepp
"A traffic management team will be in place during works to help everyone travel safely through the area. Please drive to conditions for the safety of workers and all other road users."
