Keep election promises realistic

February 8 2010, 12:12pm

The Liberal Party's promise of $12m to duplicate the Riddoch Highway to the Mount Gambier Airport if elected on March 20 has to be one of the most curious pledges imaginable.It's not a new promise either, having been recycled from the 2006 campaign.Most people consider that stretch of road to be among the safest to drive in the South East.Overtaking slow-moving vehicles is not normally a problem.Sure, a dual-lane carriageway would be an improvement, but many would argue there are significantly higher roadworks priorities in the region.Then there is the question of how best to spend $12m in the Mount Gambier electorate.Have the Liberals consulted voters on this matter?It would be interesting to hear from motorists and/or interest groups who believe the Riddoch Highway duplication is a priority project.An investment of $12m would build an indoor aquatic facility. Or it could upgrade the Icehouse.It could revamp the railway lands or create botanic gardens on the Old Hospital site.There would be change from that amount of money after building a museum. The extra amount could then fund traffic lights at the Wireless Road/Penola Road intersection.Maybe the construction of a mental health unit at the hospital would be better value for the community.If the Liberals don't wish to appear out of touch they need to pitch realistic promises at projects that will deliver wide-ranging community benefits.The Riddoch Highway duplication just doesn't seem a logical priority.