STAFF WRITERS
LATROBE City Council’s civil contractor, Ace Earthmoving, has completed the reconstruction of 1.5 kilometres of Old Melbourne Road, starting at Alexanders Road roundabout heading east.
Council manages an infrastructure network that consists of more than 1669 kilometres of road, that requires regular review to ensure current standards are maintained, and that any significant areas of risk are identified and rectified.
The works undertaken during the reconstruction of Old Melbourne Road include pavement stabilisation, new roadside drains, concrete pavement construction, and installation of guardrail and a concrete splitter island at the Alexanders Road end of the project.
Council’s Road Safety Plan 2019-2024 sets out ‘safer roads’ as one of four pillars of ‘The Safe System Approach’, which outlines best practice in reducing road trauma.
Safer roads and roadsides play a major role in reducing the severity of or preventing certain road accidents from occurring. The council says these treatments to Old Melbourne Road will help provide a safer road system for all road users.
The Latrobe City Mayor, Darren Howe said that this reconstruction was delivered through the council’s capital works program.
“The completion of the Old Melbourne Road reconstruction is a significant step forward in ensuring our road network is fit for purpose, accessible, responsive and sustainable to the community,” he said.
“The reconstruction has provided an improved and safer road for all users. We recognise that this stretch of road is highly utilised, with many residents commuting between our city’s towns and small towns. Continually improving safety on our road network is a key priority.”
Old Melbourne Road is set for reopening in mid-July, subject to sub-contractor availability and weather conditions.
To find out more about current road works, visit the Council website: latrobe.vic.gov.au/City/Roads_Drains_Lights_and_Trees/Roads_and_Drains
