Help name bridge

By Lia Bichel
RESIDENTS in the City of Greater Dandenong have the chance to choose a name for a major feature in a multi-million dollar State Government project.
A competition launched on Tuesday allows residents to submit a name for the new George Street bridge.
The Vic Roads bridge will be a focal point in the Government’s $290 million Revitalising Central Dandenong initiative, which is being delivered by VicUrban in partnership with the City of Greater Dandenong.
Dandenong MP John Pandazopoulos encouraged locals to submit a name in the competition.
“The new bridge will become a local landmark for locals and visitors to central Dandenong and a focal point in the city’s transformation,” Mr Pandazopoulos said.
“It’s fitting that we ask those who will drive, cycle or walk across the bridge to suggest a name that evokes pride in our city.”
When the project is complete, the bridge will be built over the railway line and Foster Street, linking an extended George Street with Cheltenham Road.
It will feature artwork based on historical images of the former Dandenong livestock market, which had been located on the site for 40 years.
City of Greater Dandenong mayor Jim Memeti said the competition allowed people to become part of local history, and hoped the bridge’s new name would be reflective of the thoughts and feelings of the local residents.
He said the project team was looking for a name that promoted local identity, reflected the site’s history and looked towards the city’s future.
“The George Street bridge, when complete, will be the new gateway into central Dandenong, improving accessibility for people living, working and shopping in our city,” Cr Memeti said.
The City of Greater Dandenong will choose the winning name based on recommendations from project staff and the process will be overseen by the Office of Geographic Names Victoria.
Entrants have until 18 June, 2010 to submit a name.
Entry forms, selection criteria and other project information can be found at vicroads.vic.gov.au/GeorgeStBridge.
Electronic entry forms are available at greaterdandenong.com or residents can pick up an entry form at council service centres.