The Bellarine Peninsula’s biggest road infrastructure project, the Drysdale Bypass is now open.
The new $117 million bypass, stretching 6 kilometres from Jetty Road to the north of Whitcombes Road, will significantly reduce traffic congestion through the centre of Drysdale and will ensure safer, more efficient journeys on the Bellarine Peninsula.
The bypass will give local roads back to local drivers by diverting trucks, which make up more than 11 per cent of the 20,000 vehicles that travel through Drysdale each day, away from the town centre.
In addition, visitors to the Bellarine will also enjoy more consistent travel times, especially during the busier summer holiday season where an extra 5000 vehicles move through Drysdale daily.
A new pedestrian underpass which is already providing safer access for students has also been constructed under the bypass linking the town centre with the education, arts and sporting precinct on Peninsula Drive. Finishing touches including interpretive artwork on the underpass will be completed by the end of the year.
As part of the project, a new 25-metre arch bridge has been built over the Bellarine railway line and rail trail, featuring a striking arch design and a split stone finish which is in keeping with the aesthetics of the Drysdale landscape.
Over the coming months some temporary lane closures and speed restrictions will be in place to complete drainage works, landscaping and permanent lighting. Minor works on the shared use path, which runs along the full length of the bypass, also need to be completed.