The Barwon Heads Road Upgrade has been completed six months ahead of schedule, delivering drivers, cyclists and pedestrians safer and more reliable travel.
Stage one of the $365-million project has added close to four kilometres of extra lanes between Belmont and Charlemont to accommodate close to 44,000 daily journeys by 2031.
Member for South Barwon Darren Cheeseman said the project included intersection upgrades, shared pedestrian and cyclist paths, and the Marshall rail line improvements.
“The removal of the level crossing is a particularly welcome improvement to Barwon Heads Road,” he said.
“The replacement of the level crossing with the bridge over the rail line at Marshall is a major boost to both the safety and the reliability of travel on the road.
“The level crossing’s removal is especially beneficial to the increasing number of drivers who use Barwon Heads Road at peak travel times.”
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said the completion announcement followed the opening of the Geelong-bound carriageway over the bridge at Marshall on May 24.
“This upgrade will have long-term benefits for residents, businesses and visitors,” she said.
“It is an important investment in vital infrastructure to meet the needs of the growing community of the Geelong region now and into the future.”
Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant said the project provided “improved traffic conditions” and encouraged people to “consider active transport options”.
“I am pleased the community and travellers are now reaping the full benefits of the upgrade,” she said.
“I’m pleased that drivers, pedestrians and cyclists can now use these terrific new community assets.”
The project’s second stage will upgrade Barwon Heads Road from Reserve Road, Charlemont, to Lower Duneed Road to ensure the link between Geelong and the Bellarine is fit for purpose.
