The $117 million Drysdale Bypass project in Victoria is one step closer to beginning construction with an early works agreement already secured. In addition, Decmil will commence design work for the project in the coming weeks.

“With early works starting, we’re one step closer to building this much-anticipated project to get locals home safer and sooner,” Minister for Roads and Road Safety Luke Donnellan said.

A detailed archaeological excavation will also be underway to identify areas that have cultural significance and VicRoads will be working closely with traditional owners to manage any discoveries made during the dig.

Once completed, the new bypass will help improve safety as well as help ease congestion at the heart of Drysdale by providing an alternative and more efficient route for trucks and drivers on the Bellarine Peninsula.

“The new bypass will upgrade the local roads people rely on, reduce congestion in Drysdale, boost safety and slash travel times along the Bellarine Peninsula,” Premier Daniel Andrews said.

Traffic congestion through the town is expected to be reduced by 40 per cent with the bypass running from Jetty Road to north of Whitcombes Road. In addition, travellers on the Bellarine will also be provided with smoother and more reliable journeys.

The project will include the construction of a six-kilometre shared user path as well as a pedestrian and cycling underpass at Peninsula Drive, which will provide locals with better connection to schools, sporting precincts and the growing residential communities.

Traffic lights will also be installed at the intersection at Grubb Road and Portarlington Road as part of this multi-million dollar project. The traffic lights will be replacing the current roundabout, which will significantly improve safety and traffic flow for cyclists and pedestrians.

“The Drysdale Bypass will provide major benefits for the Bellarine - delivering a vital link to schools, growing communities and boosting the local economy,” Member for Bellarine Lisa Neville said.

Major construction work on the Drysdale Bypass is expected to commence in September of this year and completed by mid-2020.

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Source: Premier of Victoria, VicRoads