Improvements on an almost 20km-long section of the Hyland Highway between Flynns Creek Road and Carrajung-Woodside Road have been completed to provide commuters with safer access in Gippsland, Victoria, Australia.

Works included intersection upgrades at Flynns Creek Road and Rosedale-Flynns Creek Road. Australian and Victorian governments collectively funded the  A$10m ($7.4m) project.

The project also involved shoulder construction and sealing, as well as the installation of safety guard rails, pullover areas, line marking and signage.

Australia Deputy Prime Minister and  Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Michael McCormack said: “This project is another demonstration of the Australian government’s commitment to upgrading key regional roads right around the country to help ensure people get home sooner and safer.”

“Drivers will benefit from new safety barriers, line marking, turning lanes, improved sight distance and widening of the shoulders and roads.”

Victoria Minister for roads and road safety Luke Donnellan said that the Hyland Highway is a key route for the freight industry and tourists heading to the Ninety Mile Beach area.

“We’re getting it done, delivering a safer and smoother journey for locals, visitors and truckies on the Hyland Highway.”

The highway upgrade is expected to enhance safety for locals commuting to the Latrobe Valley while improving transport efficiency for local producers.

According to State Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing, the project also includes planned intersection improvements at Grand Ridge Road and Carrajung-Woodside Road.

Shing adds: “Once this full package of works is done, drivers will benefit from new safety barriers, line marking, turning lanes, improved sight distance and widening of the shoulders and roads.”

Concept plans for intersection upgrades are being developed and will be shared with stakeholders, adjoining landholders and the wider community.

Work on the intersections is scheduled to start early next year, with an expected completion date in mid-2020.