DEATH TRAP CASH VOW
A NOTORIOUS Ocean Grove intersection is set to undergo a million-dollar safety upgrade if the Liberals win government.
Two accidents at the Presidents Avenue and Orton St intersection, including one earlier this year that left a motorcycle rider with multiple broken bones, have prompted the pledge from the Opposition before the November election.
Opposition roads spokesman David Hodgett said it was clear the community wanted action.
“There’s got to be something done with this intersection. It’s busy and awkward,” Mr Hodgett said.
“If elected, a Liberal Nationals government will fix this mess and ensure this intersection is upgraded to help keep pedestrians and road users safe.”
The pledge comes after more than 2200 people signed a petition calling for a fix to the road, and after motorcycle rider Tyler Peace and a car collided at the intersection in April.
The Presidents Ave side of the intersection is marked with a stop sign but locals have said a steep rise in Orton St obstructs the view of drivers, forcing them to edge into the intersection before turning.
Liberal candidate for Bellarine Brian McKiterick said the money would allow a feasibility study and safety upgrade to be completed.
“This funding will ensure VicRoads and the (Geelong) council can move forward quickly,” Mr McKiterick said.
“I think (the intersection) has outlived its purpose. When (Ocean Grove) was a sleepy township it was probably the right way to have an intersection but now it has outgrown that and become quite dangerous.
“Tyler’s collision and how horrific it was has brought the community together and I’ve realised something needs to be done.
“That’s why I’ve been working with the community and Matthew Guy’s team to fix the design of this area and make it safe for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists.”
Since Mr Peace’s accident, VicRoads has been working to identify safety improvements at the intersection.
Mr Hodgett said changes to lighting, the speed limit and road signs would be considered as part of the upgrade.