By ANEEKA SIMONIS
THE Monash Freeway widening project is becoming a greater reality for frustrated south-eastern motorists as the Federal Government steps in to fund half the estimated $1 billion road project.
And now, the revamped upgrade plans will extend down to Pakenham and closer into the city – relieving the exhausted arterial servicing one of the nation’s fastest growing regions.
All the project is waiting on is funding commitments by the State Government required to match the Commonwealth’s $500 million injection dollar-for-dollar for the urgent widening project to go ahead.
Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull has unfrozen $1.5 billion previously intended for the defunct East West Link.
Several major road projects will share in the funding, however he described the Monash Freeway widening project as “the centrepiece” in his injection for Victorian road infrastructure.
The widening project was initially planned to add two extra lanes from Clyde Road, Berwick to Eastlink.
However, the Federal Government intends to extend the project to Cardinia Road, Pakenham, to Warrigal Road, Chadstone – totalling 44 kilometres of upgraded road.
To date, the Victoria Government have announced they would pour $400 in the project.
Commonwealth funds will only be released on the condition the State Government matches the value dollar-for-dollar.
Minister for Roads Luke Donnellan would not confirm if the government would boost their funding to match the $500 million Federal commitment.
“The Andrews Labor Government is not going to slow down on the infrastructure projects that we promised Victorians,” he said.
“We’re happy to consider proposals to increase the capacity of the Monash but that does not stop the government’s resolve to deliver the project that we’re committed to.”
Yet, the strict Commonwealth terms will require Daniel Andrews to contribute an extra $100 million to get on with the job.
Federal Flinders MP Greg Hunt and La Trobe MP Jason Wood said residents in the outer south-east growth corridors will benefit most from the $1 billion road plan.
“The upgrade of the Monash Freeway will reduce traffic congestion and cut travel times dramatically for people living in Cranbourne South, Pearcedale, Tooradin, Cardinia, Kooweerup, Western Port and the Mornington Peninsula,” Mr Hunt said.
Mr Wood attributed the major funding injection to continued campaign efforts by the south-eastern community.
“This is what our residents have been asking for,” he said.
Cardinia Shire Council and Casey Council have also backed the plan, each working hard behind the scene advocating the much-needed upgrade.
Casey Mayor Sam Aziz said the upgrade will significantly improve the lives of residents living in the municipality forecasted to blow out to 490,000 residents to live in Casey in the next 25 years.
“Casey has one of the highest levels of car ownership in Victoria with private vehicles accounting for over 88.5 per cent of journey to work trips,” he said.
“With over 70 per cent of Casey residents leaving the municipality each day for work, it’s essential our residents have access to a safe and reliable transport network.”
Growth in Cardinia Shire is projected to almost double in the next 20 years.
By 2036, Cardinia Shire’s population is expected to jump by 86.31 per cent up to more than 175,000 residents, meaning future-forward road infrastructure is a must for the high growth region.
Mr Turnbull Government remain committed to building the East West Link, announcing $3 billion will be given to any Victorian government who wishes to proceed with the project.
The Andrews Government ruled out the project.
“Before the election, we promised not to build East West and we’re keeping that promise. We’re getting on with building the infrastructure that Victorians voted for and need,” a state government spokesperson said.
The State Government remain set on the Western Distributor.
Funding pleas made by the Premier have gone unanswered by Mr Turnbull who has not released money for the project.
Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull on the plans with La Trobe MP Jason Wood
