HELLO, BYPASS

FINALLY IT’S …

THE long-awaited $117 million Drysdale bypass is set to open next month.

Major Road Projects Victoria is now putting the finishing touches to the 6km stretch in preparation for its opening to traffic in July.

Final works include asphalting, line marking and the installation of barriers and signage.

The Bellarine Railway overpass and the pedestrian underpass that will link Drysdale with the education, arts and sporting precinct on Peninsula Drive is also almost finished. The 25m-long arched overpass features a split stone finish, with its design to match the area’s rural and historic landscape.

Bellarine MP Lisa Neville said the project was set to meet its promised mid-2020 completion date.

“We’re on track to open the new Drysdale bypass to traffic in the coming weeks as planned,” Ms Neville said.

“Locals will soon be seeing the benefits of less congestion in High St, while holidaymakers can look forward to safer, more efficient journeys along the Bellarine Peninsula.”

The bypass, which runs between Jetty and Whitcombes roads, aims to improve safety and ease congestion on the Bellarine Peninsula.

More than 120,000 trees, plants and ground coverings native to the Bellarine Peninsula will also feature along the alignment to enhance the roadside reserves and conserve animal habitats.

Some speed reductions may be in place when the bypass opens to traffic to allow work on drainage, landscaping, walking and cycling paths and permanent lighting to be finalised.