TAC grants to support road safety projects

A TRIO of approved Transport Accident Commission (TAC) grants will make roads across Geelong safer.

The City of Greater Geelong has announced it has been successful in being one of 40 Victorian councils to obtain funding for three road safety projects as part of the TAC’s Local Government Grant Program.

Cr Ron Nelson said the city could now make a start on three road safety initiatives that would help to reduce road trauma and promote active transport around the region.

“This is a chance to explore and implement solutions to issues that are specific to our region.”

The city has received funding for a raised wombat crossing to be unveiled on Batten Road in Armstrong Creek, between Central Road and Vaughan Drive near Oberon High School’s entrance. The city will match the $52,000 to be provided for the project.

The city also received an additional $30,000 for its Vision Zero Plan by playing a part in the region’s road safety strategy Vision Zero Geelong, which aims to have no deaths and/or serious injuries on Greater Geelong roads by 2050.

A total of $60,000 will also go towards a joint project between the city and the Surf Coast Shire will be used to investigate future safe cycling options between Geelong and Torquay. Both councils have each received a $30,000 grant.

Geelong mayor Trent Sullivan said the city was elated to receive the funding for the projects.

“Council thanks the TAC for recognising that these road safety projects will help to protect our most vulnerable road users and contribute to our Vision Zero goals.

“We’re looking forward to collaborating with the neighbouring Surf Coast Shire to plan for a future safe cycling link between the two municipalities.”

TAC chief executive Tracey Slatter welcomed the announcement.

“Protecting vulnerable road users is a key part of improving road safety in Victoria and this grant program supports local governments to find solutions to specific road safety concerns in their region,” she said.

For more on the City of Greater Geelong Zero Vision Geelong plan, head to geelongaustralia.com.au/roadsafety