A week after NSW Labor announced a $1 billion rural roads policy, the state Nats have come out with an announcement of their own – so far two intersections will benefit.
One of them – a dangerous road junction that took the life of a motorcyclist in August 2018 – has been the subject of a local campaign, including by Ballina Greens MP Tamara Smith.
Alstonville on-ramp
Roads minister Melinda Pavey and Nationals Ballina candidate Ben Franklin yesterday announced the government had found $5 million to build a new on-ramp to the Bruxner Highway at the Ballina Road intersection – after the next election.
Following the tragic crash last year the NSW Government has been working closely with the community to come to the best and safest solution for this intersection, which more than 15,000 vehicles use each day,’ Ms Pavey said.
‘A new on ramp at Ellis Road will remove the right turn lane from Ballina Road onto the highway and allow for the smooth merging of traffic
Mr Franklin welcomed this safety boost, saying road safety would be one of his top priorities if elected.
‘Our community was in shock last year after the tragic crash that took a precious life, I will do all I can to ensure our roads are as safe as possible,’ he said.
Traffic lights for Lismore
Ms Pavey then moved on to Lismore where, together with retiring member Thomas George and Nationals candidate Austin Curtin she announced $6 million for the Dawson Street, Bruxner Highway intersection, replacing the existing roundabout with traffic lights.
Mrs Pavey said a concept plan for the new traffic signals had already been completed, which meant design work on the new traffic lights would start immediately.
‘Traffic lights will be coordinated with other signal sites in Lismore, providing the greatest level of efficiency and safety for all road users,’ Mrs Pavey said.
She added that, if returned, the government would start work on concept designs for the intersection immediately and community consultation would occur in the second half of 2019.
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