NRMA Director Wendy Machin and NRMA President Alan Evans want planned works on the Pacific Highway to be brought forward in the interests of motorists’ safety and saving lives.

Ms Machin and Mr Evans recently toured the highway. Ms Machin said there is no commencement or completion date for most projects listed in the 2008 NSW Budget Infrastructure Statement and sadly, lives will continue to be lost at an unacceptable rate until these projects are completed.

“The recent federal and state budgets outlined funding for some areas of the highway and it is encouraging to see these projects underway,” Ms Machin said.

“However only 40 per cent or 250 km is dual carriageway and only 10 per cent or 78 km is under construction, which is unacceptable for Australia’s busiest tourist and freight road.

“There have been 16 fatalities already this year on the Pacific Highway.

“Let’s hope north coast communities do not have to endure more fatalities on their roads before physical improvements are seen.

“Residents have heard enough about enquiries, reports, investigations and surveys regarding road improvements.  They deserve action, not promises.”

The tour was not just limited to road investigation.

Ms Machin said NRMA continues to lobby for safer drivers and safer vehicles as well as safer roads.

“Fluorescent school zone signage and improved older driver testing are just two of many policies we highlighted during this trip.”

Open Road e-zine October 2008

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