With traffic expected to double in the next 10 years and roads already at capacity, Mitchell Shire Council is seeking an urgent commitment from Federal election candidates to accelerate and fund the completion of a full diamond interchange to link Wallan and Hume Freeway.
A Federal commitment is required to support the free flow of traffic on Hume Freeway and to support improved freight connectivity and efficiency on our national freeway.
A Federal commitment will also help secure state funding for the freeway access ramps as well as the associated VicRoads plans to duplicate and upgrade Watson Street and expand capacity on the Northern Highway in Wallan.
People driving through to Kilmore, Broadford, Pyalong, Tooborac, Seymour and surrounds will benefit from the upgrades with the reduction of traffic congestion across the Mitchell Shire. Alleviating the pressure on Mitchell Shire's roads will allow residents and businesses safe, easy and fast travel daily.
A road like the Northern Highway is already at capacity. There are more than 25,000 cars using the Northern Highway every day. By 2030 more than 50,000 cars will use the highway every single day.
Mitchell Shire's population will expand to more than 270,000 residents - with 50,000 of those based in Wallan - which means something needs to be done now to address the increasing congestion.
A clay quarry was approved in Wallan, putting even more pressure on our road network with an estimated 140 extra vehicle movements each day. This translates to 14 large truck movements per hour.
The freeway interchange is one of two key priorities that Mitchell Shire Council is campaigning for this Federal election, along with local mental health services. Community members can visit www.fightformitchellshire.com.au to send an email to their candidates that these priorities matter.
