A $2 million project to make cycling in alpine areas safer is under way in the North East.
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VicRoads has confirmed the money has been spent on “turnout lanes” for some of the region’s major roads, allowing bicycles and slower vehicles to move out of the way of oncoming traffic.
Five turnout lanes have been constructed on Bright-Tawonga Road, 10 on Bogong High Plains Road and two on Great Alpine Road at Dungeys Hollow and at Blowhard Gap.
The project is continuing with work on more turnout lanes on Mount Buffalo Road, which are expected to be completed by July 2019.
VicRoads North Eastern regional director Nicki Kyriakou said the works would make the roads safer.
“Construction of new turnout lanes is well under way across the alpine region to provide drivers and cyclists with safer overtaking opportunities,” she said.
“In addition to these permanent measures and to support regional tourism, we’re rolling out temporary cyclist information signage on the alpine roads during cycling events to advise riders of the gradients and conditions.”
Construction of new turnout lanes is well under way across the alpine region to provide drivers and cyclists with safer overtaking opportunities.
- VicRoads regional director Nicki Kyriakou
The safety signage has been installed ahead of this weekend’s High Country Women’s Cycling Festival, which will involve 150 female riders heading up to the Mount Buffalo peak.
Festival organiser Michelle Armstrong said safety was a top priority and extensive rider briefings would be held to give advice on cycling behavior, the importance of wearing brightly coloured lycra, and rear flashing lights.
“Some of our participants are ascending and descending a mountain for the first time. Together with festival partners VicRoads and Alpine Shire, as well as local cycle safety group RoadSafe North East, we will deliver a safe and enjoyable experience for all riders,” she said.
RSNE cycle safety ambassador Jackie Hobbs said the sign to be placed at the Mount Buffalo Road roundabout in Porepunkah will advise motorists of the Mount Buffalo Women’s Ride and ask them to “pass cyclists safely – thank you”.
