Building of interchange (Exit 85) reduces traffic

(By Nicholas Kosinski – Bond University Journalism student)

The closing of Penny Lane exit (Pacific Motorway exit 85A) allowed for the building of interchange (Exit 85) to be built.

This new ramp will benefit the Varsity Lakes community in a number of different ways.

Some of the major benefits include increased pedestrian safety, as well as a more efficient traffic flow.

The level of safety will improve with the construction of a pedestrian and cycle path, which was built by widening the existing road bridge across the motorway.

Some other benefits from the construction include a more efficient traffic flow, easier access to Varsity Lakes Rail Station, and it will also cater for future traffic growth.

Joint State and Federal Government funding of $80 million paid for the interchange (exit 85) project, along with a total of $910 million to upgrading the Pacific Motorway between the Gateway and Tugun.

A Transport-Main Roads spokesman said $420 million is being used to upgrade interchanges between the Gateway Bridge and Varsity Lakes, widen sections of the motorway between Nerang and Worongary and to make improvements at Coomera.

Marcus Pond, a Varsity Lakes resident for over four years, said he was happy to hear that the government was taking action is making life easier for people living in the area. 

 “It is always good to hear about improvements being made to the area, especially ones that benefit pedestrians and make their lives easier,” he said.