Road funds flow

By VICTORIA STONE-MEADOWS

IN one of the biggest funding commitments for our loal roads in recent years, funding for the Roads to Recovery Program has been doubled.
After the recent budget announcements, this includes the Federal Government’s $3.4 million on top of Yarra Ranges Council’s $10.3 million to upgrade existing roads and build new roads throughout the shire.
Federal Casey MP Tony Smith said the Roads to Recovery Program would be great for communities.
“I was very pleased to see this critical announcement,” he said.
“It is something I argued for vigorously with senior ministers before the budget.”
The first part of the funding will provide the following upgrades in 2015/16:
* $1,319,000 to replace Walkers Lane Bridge in Healesville.
* $250,000 (plus landowner contributions) for Clematis and Falkingham roads in Mount Evelyn.
* $240,000 (plus landowner contributions) for West Hill Drive and George Road in Mount Evelyn.
* $910,000 for Sunnyside Road Bridge Replacement in Gruyere.
There are more upgrades planned, with a schedule of works being determined for next year.

Are there other roads more in need of an upgrade?
Will these upgrades improve roads in our region?
Have your say on roads upgrades in the Yarra Ranges: email editor@mailnewsgroup.com.au