ROADWORKS of around $2.8m are under way at two Riddoch Highway intersections near Mount Gambier to improve safety for heavy vehicle operators and private road users.
Funded by the state and federal governments, upgrades started last week at the highway’s intersections with Wandilo Forest Road/Ridge Road and Kilsby Road.
In addition, Kilsby Road’s junction with Glenelg River Road is being upgraded.
Member for Barker Tony Pasin told The Border Watch the upgrades will improve access to the Riddoch Highway, which is a key freight route through the Limestone Coast.
“It is important for us to provide roads which can safely sustain heavy vehicle traffic,” he said.
“Upgrading these intersections will enable safer freight transport and it will support economic growth and jobs.
“Heavy vehicle operators and local businesses can expect a safer and more productive route when the projects are completed in April, weather permitting.”
Mr Pasin said the first project will create dedicated right and left turn lanes and better pavement just north of Mount Gambier at Wandilo Forest Road/Ridge Road, which would make it safer for heavy vehicles to turn into and from Riddoch Highway.
The second project will help cater for heavy vehicles on Kilsby Road, reducing congestion in the more residential areas of Mount Gambier.
Mr Pasin said the state and federal governments are investing “up to $2.77m” in the projects on a 50/50 basis.
South East chipping and logging operator LV Dohnt and Company welcomed the road upgrades.
Operations manager Gavin Dohnt said regional roads were the company’s “biggest hazard” moment and drivers were applying
“their own voluntary speed limits” on bad stretches of road.
“We welcome these and any other upgrades to roads in the region,” he said.
“It will be to the benefit of industry and private road users.”
Roadworks are undertaken on weekdays and weekends and speed limits are in place to ensure the safety of the public and road workers.
Traffic delays can be expected.
