Project DescriptionThe project grade separated the intersection at Sand Road on the Princes Freeway East. The project constructed a new bridge overpass for Sand Road, four new entry and exit ramps, two new roundabouts, rehabilitated existing carriageways and local access roads, and installed new signage, street lighting and bicycle facilities. BenefitsThe Princes Freeway East is an important transport link that connects Melbourne to the Gippsland and the south east coast of New South Wales. However the safety and efficiency of the freeway was affected due to a number of at grade intersections between Nar Nar Goon and Longwarry. The intersection at Sand Road, considered to be one of the busiest as it provides access to townships and service centres on either side of the freeway, had a poor safety record.
Motorists were required to negotiate the freeway across oncoming traffic and stop in a central median or wait for sufficient gaps in the traffic before merging. The majority of accidents at the intersection were as a result of motorists becoming frustrated and entering the freeway unsafely. As an interim measure to improve safety, the speed limit either side of the intersection was reduced to 80 km/h.
The completed project has removed the need for motorists to negotiate the freeway from a stationary position and improved safety and transport efficiency. The completed project has also allowed for the speed limit to be increased to 110km/h and reduced transit times and vehicle operating costs. FundingThe cost of the project was $22.25 million. The Australian Government contributed $16.68 million and the Victorian Government $5.56 million. TimetableConstruction commenced on 9 October 2015 and was completed on 22 February 2017. |
