Paul Dunlop
WORK along the 20kilometre stretch of the Pakenham Bypass is well underway.
The most anticipated road project in the area is on schedule for completion in late 2007, according to VicRoads officials.
Project manager Charlie Broadhurst said the $242 million project was progressing well.
“Construction is underway on all three sections of the project,” Mr Broadhurst said.
“Earthworks are advancing along the entire 20kilometre length of the Pakenham Bypass and freeway pavement construction has begun on the middle section between Cardinia Road and HealesvilleKoo Wee Rup Road.”
Mr Broadhurst said works were currently progressing on 10 bridge structures that crossed over various creeks, local roads and the Gippsland railway line.
Works on the Cardinia Road overpass were nearing completion, he said, with pavement works and roundabout construction currently underway.
“It is anticipated that traffic will be switched from the temporary sidetrack onto the Cardinia Road overpass at the end of November,” Mr Broadhurst said.
The extension of Lecky Road in Officer has been finished and is now open to traffic.
Stephens Road was closed to through traffic at the Pakenham Bypass reservation boundaries on 31 October.
Jointly funded by the State and Federal Governments, when completed the bypass will be a fourlane freeway between the Princes Freeway at Beaconsfield and Nar Nar Goon Road at Nar Nar Goon.