Four Greater Geelong bridges will soon receive strengthening upgrades to boost road network capacity and improve efficiency for freight operators and farmers.
The bridges, located on Corio Quay Road, will be upgraded to cater for efficient road freight as part of a more than $128 million joint investment in the state’s roads from the federal and state governments.
State Minister for Ports and Freight, Roads and Road Safety Melissa Horne said the upgrades in Geelong would support GeelongPort to continue to function as one of the state’s main grain export shipping hubs.
“Stronger bridges mean a stronger freight network allowing operators to carry more, more efficiently, and avoid costly detours,” she said.
“By fixing these pinch-points, we’re giving farmers, exporters and freight operators the reliable connections they need to stay competitive here and overseas.”
Acting Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Julie Collins said the federal government was glad to support upgrade projects with a further $56.6 million investment.
Ms Collins also said the works recognised the importance of freight and logistics to the state, with over 260,000 Victorians employed in the $36 billion industry.
“These bridge upgrades are about making sure Victorian producers and freight operators can get their goods to market quickly, safely and efficiently,” she said.
“We’re creating stronger, more reliable infrastructure to support local jobs and strengthen supply chains that communities and businesses across the state rely on.”