The Minns Labor Government is today announcing an additional $20 million to ensure the Tripoli Way Extension is delivered in full, bringing the Government's total contribution since March 2023 to $40 million.
The Tripoli Way Extension will alleviate congestion on the Illawarra Highway in Albion Park by establishing an uninterrupted travel route connecting Terry Street in the east to the Illawarra Highway at Broughton Avenue in the West, by passing the town centre.
This is part of the Minns Labor Government's plan to ensure the people of Kiama have the essential services they need and rely on, including road infrastructure to boost safety and efficiency for local communities.
This investment unlocks the full scope of the $74 million project - including the much-needed future upgrade of the Terry Street and Tripoli Way intersection - with the balance funded by Shellharbour City Council and developer contributions.
In fact Shellharbour City Council, who are delivering this project had previously removed the works at the Terry Street intersection from the current scope of the project due to a funding shortfall. This investment means the council can get on with the job in full.
Committed to during the March 2023 election by Labor candidate for Kiama Katelin McInerney, the Minns Labor Government has already delivered $20 million for this project, with early works wrapping up this month. Completion is expected in late 2027.
This is in contrast with the former Government who after twelve years in Government, neglected to invest in or commence construction on this vital project, despite over 6,000 new people moving into Albion Park
In fact, in 2017 the Liberals decoupled the Tripoli Way bypass from the Albion Park Bypass project, significantly delaying the road and creating a traffic nightmare for Albion Park residents.
Long term Albion Park residents and those who have moved into new developments did so with the promise of infrastructure to keep up with the growing population, that is what the Minns Labor Government is delivering.
Chris Minns, Premier of New South Wales said:
"For too long, this community has been waiting for the services and infrastructure it needs - from schools and hospitals to local roads. That's what our government is focused on delivering.
"Voters have a choice about who will be strongest possible advocate for their community- and Katelin is someone who can be at the table when decisions are made.
"Katelin has shown she'll work hard to make sure Kiama gets its fair share - and that's exactly the kind of voice this community deserves in Parliament."
Jenny Aitchison, Minister for Roads said:
"This additional $20 million ensures the full scope of the Tripoli Way Extension can be delivered, including the much-needed Terry Street intersection upgrade, so locals get the maximum benefit from this project.
"For too long, this community has had to live with congestion and delays because the former Liberal and National Government stripped Tripoli Way out of the Albion Park Rail Bypass in 2017.
"Kiama can't afford to go back to the Liberal's cuts, neglect and broken promises.
"Labor is getting on with the job, after decades of delays, to finally deliver the infrastructure the people of Albion Park deserve."
Katelin McInerney, Labor Candidate for Kiama said:
"This is the investment our community has been waiting for. The Tripoli Way Extension will reduce congestion through the Albion Park town centre and make local roads safer and more reliable.
"This extension was first dreamed up in the 1960s, and with this additional investment it will become a reality.
"After twelve years of waiting we finally have shovels in the ground, and the funding we need to get the job done.
"Labor is listening to locals, fixing the mess left behind by the previous government, and delivering the infrastructure our growing community needs."
Chris Homer, Mayor of Shellharbour City Council said:
"The Tripoli Way Extension is a vital project for our growing community, enhancing the efficiency and safety of our roads. This is a huge infrastructure project, and I thank the Minns NSW Government for this substantial funding announcement for Shellharbour's next largest infrastructure undertaking, which will assist in getting the Tripoli Way Extension not only delivered but delivered right."
