Construction has already commenced on the $86 million Ellerton Drive Extension project in Queanbeyan, New South Wales.
Once completed, the Ellerton Drive Extension will create a safer and more efficient corridor which will connect Queanbeyan East to Googong’s growing southern regions as well as the future development in Tralee.
“Today we are turning the sod on an important project for Queanbeyan and the greater region. The Ellerton Drive extension will ease congestion on local roads and improve response times for our emergency services.
“The extension will allow motorists to avoid up to 19 intersections and three sets of lights, reduce travel time across the route by 38 per cent, and direct traffic away from schools,” Member for Monaro John Barilaro said.
According to Federal Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Darren Chester, this project is vital to the region in order to accommodate the future needs of the community.
“During construction, more than 250 jobs will be supported, and once completed it will reduce heavy vehicles travelling through the centre of Queanbeyan and meet the future needs of residents,” Mr Chester said.
Senator for the ACT Zed Seselja said that the extension will give emergency vehicles greater ease of passage and reduce road safety risks along the route.
“Each of these improvements will make roads safer and ease congestion in the Queanbeyan city centre. With the population of Queanbeyan and the surrounding region set to reach 56,000 by 2031, we are delivering a new road corridor that will cater for the growth of the city,” Senator Seselja said.
Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council Mayor Tim Overall said that with this project, Queanbeyan’s traffic network will be ensured to continue operating efficiently.
“Construction of the EDE and a new bridge over the Queanbeyan River is a milestone in Queanbeyan’s development. Supported by successive councils over 40 years and the three levels of Government, this thoroughly and sensitively planned roadway will have major long term benefits for our community and the wider region,” Cr Overall said.
Earlier this year, WBHO Infrastructure was awarded the contract to deliver the Ellerton Drive Extension project.
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Source: Minister for Infrastructure and Transport
