A SECTION of Derrimut Rd – the scene of many car accidents – will be duplicated following the awarding of a $6.9-million contract to Negri Contractors.

The Minister for Roads and Ports, Tim Pallas, said work was expected to start on the stretch of Derrimut Rd between Hogans and Sayers roads later this year and be completed in early 2009.

There were 24 car crashes along this stretch between 1999 and 2004 and more have occurred since, the majority being at the intersections of Sycamore St and Virgilia Drive.

The works mean the $14.7-million duplication of the whole of Derrimut Rd has moved a step closer.

“The project for this 1.6 kilometres of the road includes upgrading from a single carriageway to a double carriageway with two lanes in each direction,” Mr Pallas said.

“It will also include off-road shared bike and pedestrian path facilities.

“The road will cater for 37,000 vehicles per day in the next 25 years.

“With traffic lights and pedestrian facilities being installed at Sycamore St and Virgilia Drive, the community will see a dramatic improvement in the safety performance of these intersections.”

The member for Altona, Lynne Kosky, said the intersection signals would also provide safe crossing for children and families attending local schools and shopping precincts.

“Two sets of pedestrian-operated signals will also be installed near Hogans Rd, again to facilitate safer crossings for pedestrians,” she said.

New service roads will be built along the eastern side of Derrimut Rd, providing safer access to residential properties and the St James Primary School, where traffic congestion is a problem during the morning and afternoon peak periods.