By Kyra Gillespie
Motorcyclists travelling along one of Gippsland’s most popular riding routes will soon benefit from a package of works that include new safety upgrades never before used in the region.
Appearing in Lang Lang on Tuesday 26 March, Minister for Roads and Minister for Road Safety and the TAC Jaala Pulford today said the Andrews Government will begin almost $500,000 worth of improvements on Westernport Road.
Improvements including new motorcycle-friendly protection on existing safety barriers, sealing intersecting driveways and side roads to reduce loose gravel entering the road and improving the surface of the road.
In a first for Gippsland, Regional Roads Victoria (RRV) will trial protective rubber caps that will be fitted to the top of safety barrier posts on curves to boost safety in the event of a rider coming off their bike.
These upgrades will begin in April and are expected to be completed by August this year. Lane closures and speed limits may be in place during this time.
Westernport Road has a history of casualty crashes, with 27 reported between January 2014 and December 2018.
These resulted in 13 people sustaining permanent life-changing injuries, including a motorcyclist.
The safety improvements are funded under the state government’s Motorcycle Safety Levy Program and is being delivered by RRV, Victoria’s country roads body.
The levy ensures funds go directly towards initiatives that improve road safety for riders, Ms Pulford said.
“So far this year 20 motorcycle riders and passengers tragically lost their lives on Victorian roads. That’s why we’re investing in the safety of everyone on country roads by delivering critical road improvements that benefit riders and drivers alike.”
Over $75 million raised from the levy has been committed to motorcycle safety projects since it was introduced.
This package is in addition to a $329,000 suite of upgrades currently being delivered on Westernport Road through the government’s Towards Zero Action Plan including new guide posts, reflective markers, speed advisory signs and safety barrier along a high-risk curve.
“When riders visit Gippsland, we want them to be confident the roads are up to scratch. These important safety works are designed to reduce both the frequency and severity of motorcycle crashes,” Member for Bass Jordan Crugnale said.
