A FLY-OVER interchange is urgently needed at Calder Park Drive to reduce crash risks, according to a local roads group.
Calder Highway improvement committee spokesman David Pollard wants both sides of federal politics to commit funding for Calder Park Drive. He named the proposed fly-over as among the group’s main priorities for the freeway, which is used by about 50,000 vehicles each weekday.
“From 1987 to 2011, there were 23 casualty crashes at the Calder Park Drive intersection, including one fatal and eight serious injury crashes,” Mr Pollard said.
“Although intersection and traffic control modifications including introduction of an 80 km/h speed limit on the western side of the highway have improved safety, there were still eight casualty accidents, including three serious injury crashes, from 2007 to 2011.
“[We need] a full fly-over interchange similar to Kings Road interchange at Calder Freeway as identified in VicRoads’ previous strategic studies.”
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Mr Pollard said recently completed intersection improvements, which stop traffic entering Calder Park Drive from the freeway, would improve safety. But he warned motorists would continue to undertake risky manoeuvres trying to enter and leave the busy stretch.
“With the Taylors Lakes area rapidly developing and traffic along the Calder Freeway expected to double in 10 years to 100,000 vehicles per day, the danger at this intersection will only increase.
‘‘Construction will greatly improve safety and remove the 80 km/h speed limit north of the future Kings Road interchange.’’
The committee also wants the state government to declare the interchange a high-priority in negotiations for future funding with the federal government.
VicRoads regional director Patricia Liew said a full-diamond interchange at the intersection of the freeway and Calder Park Drive intersection was a priority and had been put forward for funding.
Federal Calwell Labor MP Maria Vamvakinou said the project could be added later this year.
“I will continue to advocate the merits of this project and work with the local community to secure the funding necessary to make it happen.”
