The blitz has completed 20 per cent more than its original goal to improve 300 km of roads across north-east Victoria, exceeding the pre-season target of 250 km.
Crews have been working tirelessly over the warmer months to upgrade more than $85 million in road maintenance to the region – delivering safer and smoother journeys for every road user after regular reviews of roads for potential hazards and defects and listening to motorists’ feedback.
These improvements include works on the Melba Hwy at Castella, the Great Alpine Rd at Hotham Heights, Tatura-Undera Rd at Gillieston and Murphy St in Wangaratta.
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Overall, the annual regional road maintenance season has seen 1800 km of the state’s regional roads resurfaced or rebuilt, exceeding the pre-blitz target of 1600 km.
Teams have also repaired more than 185,000 potholes and 20,000 roadside signs have been fixed or replaced.
Before winter impacts construction conditions, the pace remains steady as crews continue to press ahead with extra maintenance.
With road workers out in force and temporary changes to traffic conditions, drivers are reminded to be patient, obey the posted speed limits, and drive with caution.
State Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes said understanding the importance of roads as the backbone of the Victorian economy, in 2020/21 the state government is delivering a record investment, with almost $900 million spent on improving roads across the state.
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“Investment in regional roads is vital for north-east Victoria, connecting our towns and freight networks,” Ms Symes said.
“We’ve smashed our original targets, completing work on more than 300 km across our region.
“We have already seen important upgrades to key routes including the Melba Hwy, the Great Alpine Rd and Murphy St in Wangaratta – this dedication to our roads is making travel for country Victorians safer and more reliable.”
The state government has also injected $124 million into roads as part of its Building Works package, ensuring Victoria's road network runs smoothly while supporting local jobs for Victorians as the state recovers from the pandemic.
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