BACCHUS MARSH INTERSECTION DESIGNS RELEASED

New designs for a crucial intersection upgrade have been released, showcasing improved traffic flow and pedestrian safety in the Bacchus Marsh central business district.

The designs present new traffic lights that will replace the existing roundabout at Main Street, Grant Street and Gisborne Road, resulting from three years of planning and extensive consultation.

The intersection is currently used by an estimated 1,900 vehicles between 8:00am, and 9:00am, and more than 2,000 vehicles between 5:00pm and 6:00pm. It also supports high demand throughout the rest of the day.

Increased congestion has also heightened the risk to pedestrians and cyclists trying to safely cross the intersection, which is why these new traffic lights will feature dedicated pedestrian crossing points.

The $4.1 million intersection upgrade was funded in the Victoria Budget 2020/2021.

Regional Roads Victoria (RRV) conducted extensive consultation with surrounding businesses and Moorabool Council during the design planning to better understand the constraints and the benefits of the upgrade.

While engineers have worked to minimise impacts on the streetscape, due to the constrained nature of this section of road, there will be parking spaces and trees that will require removal to implement the upgrade safely.

Pre-construction works are expected to start in late 2021, with construction scheduled to begin in 2022.

To view the designs, visit: regionalroads.vic.gov.au and search for 'Bacchus Marsh intersection upgrade'.

Quotes attributable to Member for Melton Stephen McGhie

"Bacchus Marsh is one of the fastest-growing areas anywhere in Victoria, and along with that residential and commercial growth comes increased traffic volumes."

"This upgrade will replace a roundabout that is no longer able to function effectively with new traffic lights, meaning we can effectively reduce long queues, delays, and congestion during peak travel times."