General News
24 June, 2024
Funds approved for troublesome overpass
The Dimboola overpass on the Western Highway will be upgraded following calls for improvements to efficiency and safety.
GrainGrowers had called for more state funding under the Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program, following a federal government announcement of $45 million for safety upgrades on regional roads.
GrainGrowers policy manager trade and supply chains Annabel Mactier said a large percentage of Australia’s regional bridge infrastructure was built more than 50 years ago and was approaching the end of its operational life.
“This means far too often rural and regional road managers are unable to afford the cost of upgrading or replacing the bridges and are instead forced to implement load limits to protect their assets," Ms Mactier said.
Confirmation of $62 million for regional road upgrades came in the Victorian state budget, although further details were unclear.
Murra Warra resident John Ward expressed his frustration over the lack of improvements prior to the funding announcement.
Since then, he said, a number of farmers had shared his concerns.
"I think I can safely say it isn't only me, but other farmers have concerns about the issues with safety on the overpass, especially when it's busy," Mr Ward said.
"Farmers as a whole are concerned about these issues. I don't think that issue with safety is being addressed."