Six roads get federal funds help

By Tania Martin
SIX hills roads will share in more than $1.2 million in safety upgrades following the release of the 2008-09 Federal Government Black Spot Funding package.
Some of the biggest ticket items included more than $469,000 for shoulder sealing on Paternoster Road in Cockatoo, and $678,000 for the installation of a roundabout at the corner of Old Emerald and McAllister roads in Monbulk.
Other improvements announced were $65,000 for a number of works including speed humps in Railway Road, Riparian Way and Stringybark Drive, Ferntree Gully.
Upwey’s New Road will also get an upgrade with $57,000 allocated for the installation of a traffic island and improved signs.
Infrastructure and Transport Minister Anthony Albanese recently announced the cash to help improve road safety.
“Road accidents take a huge toll on families and our communities, and the Black Spot program is making a real difference,” he said.
Mr Albanese said the projects approved for the funding had been recommended by an independent panel of road safety experts.
Cardinia Shire has welcomed the boost for Paternoster Road improvements.
Spokesman Paul Dunlop said the council had yet to receive notification of the funding but was excited to hear several roads in the shire had made the grade.
“Council will continue to work with other levels of government and the local community to improve the shire’s extensive road network,” he said.
Yarra Ranges CEO Glenn Patterson also welcomed the cash boost and said it would greatly improve safety on the shire’s roads.
“This is a great outcome,” he said.