Billions released for roads rescue

By Alana Mitchelson

FLINDERS MP Greg Hunt has welcomed the Federal and State governments’ equal injection of $1.5 billion each to fund more than 40 road and rail projects across the state.
Mr Hunt said the $3 billion Victorian Infrastructure Package announcement was good news for commuters across the south-east and would include a $1 billion upgrade to the Monash Freeway.
“The Federal Government’s $1 billion contribution for the much-needed upgrade of the Monash Freeway will reduce traffic congestion and cut travel times dramatically for people living in Cranbourne, Tooradin, Kooweerup, Western Port and the Mornington Peninsula,” Mr Hunt said.
“The upgrade will also shorten travel times for people visiting the region, which will have a flow-on effect for the local tourism industry.”
Federal Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Darren Chester said the upgrades would allow commuters more efficient travel to and from work.
“We will be delivering Monash Freeway upgrades, M80 Ring Road upgrades, Murray Basin Freight Rail Project, an Urban Congestion Package, and a Rural and Regional Roads package,” Mr Chester said.
“The Australian and Victorian governments have also agreed to develop a comprehensive business case for the Monash Freeway upgrade to investigate and consider options to reduce congestion. This will be overseen by a joint Australian and Victorian government steering committee.”
Federal La Trobe MP Jason Wood said the projects would support local industry and help create jobs for residents.
“Residents of this region will be well aware of the need for projects such as the Beaconsfield interchange, widening of the Monash and the extension of O’Shea Road to be built and it’s great to see it included within this package,” Mr Wood said.
He said a “strong transport network” was needed to support the region’s growing population.