Protest push to clear jams

HUNDREDS of Casey residents are expected to rally for swift temporary action to be taken on re-opening Evans Road in response to the state budget’s $40 million duplication investment.
The march, organised by The Casey Roads and Infrastructure Group (CRaIG) is calling for a swift “low cost solution” to the traffic jams in the surrounding area.
The State Government announced the multi-million dollar investment to duplicate 1.2 kilometres of Hallam Road between Ormond Road and the South Gippsland Highway in April.
The project would see Evans Road re-opened after it was closed in 2005 due to safety concerns and the intersection at South Gippsland Highway, Hallam Road and Evans Road overhauled.
Posters distributed by the community group say “we do not have to wait two more years for construction.”
“There is a simple, low cost solution that can be implemented now.”
The budget cash injection comes after 11 years of advocacy for a solution to the closure from local residents’ and Casey councillor Amanda Stapledon.
Cr Stapledon said residents need answers now.
“There’s been overwhelming support to open Evans Road and we are very happy to have the funding but we just don’t have any idea when it will be opened,” she said.
“It’s been closed for 11 years and the community can’t wait any longer.
“I don’t think it will be opened inside two years, if that.”
Cr Stapledon will be at the march on Sunday 15 May. Participants will be meeting at the Evans Road railway crossing in Lynbrook at 1pm.
One solution advocated by Cr Stapledon is a left turn only out of Evans Road onto the South Gippsland Highway.
Shadow Minister for Roads and Infrastructure Ryan Smith is also expected to attend.