The final project in a suite of upgrades to the M1 Motorway is forging ahead, with the northbound section between Tuggerah and Doyalson opening to three lanes tomorrow at 80 kilometres per hour.
NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole said it marked the first time three lanes have opened to traffic along this stretch of the M1, meaning safer and more efficient journeys for thousands of motorists.
"We are now on the home stretch of the Australian and NSW Government's $391.6 million upgrade of the M1 which will significantly improve journeys on one of Australia's busiest roads," Mr Toole said.
"Only two days ago, we opened the Kariong to Somersby section and now we'll see cars travelling along three lanes northbound between Tuggerah and Doyalson as well.
"The speed limit will remain at 80 kilometres per hour for now but will be lifted to 110km/h in the coming weeks."
Federal Member for Robertson Lucy Wicks said this project was part of the Federal Liberal and Nationals Government's $100 billion infrastructure pipeline.
"The Federal Government is investing a record amount on transport infrastructure to get Central Coast residents home sooner," Mrs Wicks said.
"Our pipeline will also lay the economic foundations as we reach the other side and begin to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic."
Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast and Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch said the Weakleys Drive and John Renshaw Drive intersection at Beresfield, as well as the eight-kilometre Kariong to Somersby stretch, had already opened.
"The third northbound lane opening between Tuggerah and Doyalson means that the finish line is now in sight," Mr Crouch said.
"There are a few weeks of work remaining, but after that is completed our community will reap the full benefits of a smoother, safer and faster M1."
Senator for New South Wales Hollie Hughes said the upgrade would improve travel times and journeys for those travelling along the busy corridor and commuting from key growth areas on the Central Coast.
"This is another step forward for the entire M1 upgrade project, which will benefit more than 70,000 people who use the motorway every single day," Senator Hughes said.
"The existing speed limit of 80 kilometres per hour will remain in place for the safety of workers and road users, as Transport for NSW completes the remaining finishing works including final pavement markings and safety inspections."
The southbound section of the project will open to three lanes in the coming days, and the full upgrade is expected to be opened to traffic at 110km/h by mid-2020, weather permitting.
Motorists are advised to drive to the conditions and follow new line marking and signage.
For the latest traffic updates download the Live Traffic NSW App, visit livetraffic.com or call 132 701.
