9 October 2018

Pedestrians in Lakes Entrance will be able to cross the Princes Highway more safely with the introduction of two sets of pedestrian crossing lights.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the Australian Government was investing heavily in regional infrastructure to deliver safer and more reliable outcomes for everyone on our roads, including pedestrians.

“We are focused on upgrading rural and regional roads and these pedestrian lights are just one part of the broader package of works happening in towns along the Princes Highway,” Mr McCormack said.

Victorian Minister for Roads and Road Safety Luke Donnellan said the installation of new lights will provide a real safety boost for pedestrians navigating their way around downtown Lakes Entrance.

“These lights will provide peace of mind to anyone crossing the Princes Highway, especially during holiday periods when there are more families and children enjoying all that Lakes Entrance has to offer,” Mr Donnellan said.

Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester said the new lights would be installed at the intersection of the Princes Highway and Barkes Avenue and on the highway to the east of Mechanics Street and would encourage drivers to slow to safe speeds for pedestrians.

“The new lights, kerbing, footpaths, pram crossings and raised sections of road leading up the Barkes Avenue intersection will provide safer crossing points for locals and visitors to the region. The upgrades will make the shopping strip more accessible to tourists, supporting local business owners,” Mr Chester said.

State Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing said there has been a lot of support for this upgrade from locals and East Gippsland Shire Council.

“We know how busy Lakes Entrance can get, so we’re making it safer for locals and visitors to get where they need to go, all year round,” Ms Shing said.

Reduced speed limits and traffic management will be in force while the works take place and electronic signs will operate in the area to warn drivers.

The decision to install pedestrian lights followed from community feedback and a recommendation in the East Gippsland Shire Council’s Lakes Entrance Masterplan.

Works on these traffic lights started in early October and are expected to be completed in late 2018, weather permitting.

The project is part of the $50 million Princes Highway East – Sale to NSW Border Upgrade, which is jointly funded by the Australian and Victorian governments on a 50:50 basis.