The Albanese and Allan Labor governments are delivering safer and more reliable journeys for motorists across Geelong and Victoria's south west, announcing FCC Construction Australia and BildGroup will deliver the first part of the $318 million Barwon Heads Road Upgrade - Stage 2.
The first part of Stage 2, to be delivered by the two construction partners, will involve the addition of new lanes along the 3.5-kilometre stretch between Reserve Road in Charlemont and Lake Road in Armstrong Creek.
The project will also upgrade key intersections at Warralily Boulevard, Central Boulevard and Precinct Road, install traffic lights at Newport Drive and Boundary Road, and build signalised pedestrian crossings near Build Street and the northern end of Harriot Road.
New shared walking and cycling paths and dedicated cycling lanes to improve safety and traffic flow will also be delivered as part of the upgrade.
In this year's Federal Budget, the Albanese Government committed an additional $68.2 million towards the project, bringing the Australian Government's total commitment to $193 million. This will ensure full delivery of the project, including the next section of the upgrade between Lake Road and Lower Duneed Road.
Over the past month, crews have been undertaking utility relocations and site office works, paving the way for major construction to begin in the coming weeks.
Motorists are already enjoying the benefits from the first stage of the Barwon Road Upgrade, which was completed in 2023 - with the project duplicating four kilometres of Barwon Heads Road and delivering four kilometres of new shared walking and cycling paths, along with dedicated on-road cycling lanes.
The Barwon Heads Road Upgrade - Stage 2 (Reserve Road to Lower Duneed Road) is expected to be completed in late 2028.
As stated by Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:
"This important project needs to be delivered in its entirety for the Bellarine community and the many visitors who use it and the adjoining roads. Our additional commitment this year will ensure this happens and will mean the thousands of people who rely on Barwon Heads Road every day get to where they need to go sooner and safer."
As stated by Victorian Minister for Transport Infrastructure Gabrielle Williams:
"Greater Geelong is one of the fastest-growing places in regional Victoria, which is why we're delivering this vital project to improve journeys for the people who live and work here."
As stated by Federal Member for Corangamite Libby Coker:
"The Barwon Heads Road Upgrade will cut congestion for locals that depend on these roads every day."
As stated by Victorian Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney:
"This project will improve safety across Charlemont and Armstrong Creek - creating better journeys for motorists."
