BIG upgrades at the intersection of Nepean Highway and Overton Road and the intersection of McLeod Road and the Mornington Peninsula Freeway have been promised by the federal government.
With the budget set to be handed down this week, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed during a visit to Frankston that the federal government would spend $75 million on the two projects. $50 million will be spent at Nepean Highway and Overton Road, and $25 million will be spent at McLeod Road and Mornington Peninsula Freeway. The Nepean Highway and Overton Road project will see traffic signals installed, and will improve the footpath connection to the Kananook Creek Trail.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said that the money “is ready right now”, and that the timeline for the projects would be determined in consultation with the state government. “My government is building Australia’s future – and that means building Victoria’s future too. We want to make sure all Victorians have the services and the infrastructure they need now and into the future. We will continue to partner with the Victorian Government to deliver critical road upgrades to provide immediate congestion relief now,” Albanese said. “This is good for local jobs, good for local businesses and good for commuters.”
Dunkley MP Jodie Belyea has welcomed the announcement – she said “as a local who travels frequently across our community, I know this investment will make a major difference for pedestrians and road users. These upgrades will enhance safety for pedestrians and road users in our local community. “These upgrades will make our local roads safer and get people moving faster. This money is ready right now, to deliver two major road upgrades in our community.”
Frankston mayor Kris Bolam said that the money would help realise the proposals in the Nepean Boulevard Master Plan. “This is a major win for Frankston City and sets the scene for a vibrant and prosperous future for our city centre,” he said. “Businesses will thrive, developers will invest, new residents and visitors will flock to Frankston’s city centre following these crucial improvements.
“I’d like to thank the federal government and local member for Dunkley Jodie Belyea for investing in our community and putting Frankston City first, and also the support of state member for Frankston Paul Edbrooke in securing this once-in-a-generation opportunity for our city. I now look forward to working with the federal government, Department of Transport and Planning, key stakeholders and local community to ensure these funds deliver the future our city so richly deserves.”
Council’s plan for the “Nepean Boulevard” project includes the creation of a new northern gateway and Kananook Creek Park, use of the Comfort Station, expanded pathways, and landscaping works. The federal election is expected to be called imminently.
First published in the Frankston Times – 25 March 2025
