Expressions of interest are being sought to design and construct the $50 million realignment of the South Gippsland Highway at Black Spur, Koonwarra.
The project is jointly funded by the Australian and Victorian governments, with each committing $25 million.
The realignment also includes road shoulder widening and the installation of flexible safety barriers at key locations.
“This stretch of road is critical to the region, providing access to the major tourist destination of Wilson’s Promontory and a key route for the agriculture, dairy, oil and gas industries. Realigning the stretch will reduce run-off-road crashes, improve efficiency and connectivity for freight and reduce travel times,” said Federal Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Darren Chester.
Victorian Minister for Roads and Road Safety Luke Donnellan said pre-qualified contractors were invited to express interest in the project.
“Safety is our top priority. That’s why we’re investing in the realignment of the South Gippsland Highway at Black Spur, to remove several tight curves and widen the road to create a straighter, more level section of highway. As a result the highway will be upgraded to ‘A’ class road standard, which will reduce travel times and improve road safety,” said Mr. Donnellan.
Shortlisted contractors will be invited to tender for the project later in 2017.
The project is earmarked for completion in 2021.