Motorists using Clarence Way between Sandilands and Bonalbo will experience fewer road closures during severe weather, following the completion of two major flood immunity projects delivered by Kyogle Council at a cost of $7.2 million.
The projects at Culmaran Creek and Tunglebung Creek involved raising road levels by up to 1.5 metres, installing multi-cell reinforced concrete box culverts, replacing existing timber composite bridge decks with concrete structures, and completing drainage upgrades to improve flood resilience at both locations.
The works were jointly funded by the Albanese and Minns Governments through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) and delivered by Kyogle Council, with construction completed in around six months. The projects will be officially opened on Australia Day at a ceremony at Culmaran Creek.
These two projects are part of the broader $26.1 million upgrade of Clarence Way between Bonalbo and the Bruxner Highway at Sandilands.
The Clarence Way upgrade project includes $10 million in funding through the Regional Road Transport Recovery Program (RRTRP) and $7.08 million in Essential Public Asset Restoration (EPAR) funding.
Funding also includes $3.2 million from the Albanese Government's Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program (LRCI), $4.83 million from NSW Government election commitments, and a $1 million contribution from Kyogle Council.
Together, the projects significantly improve Clarence Way's flood immunity, helping keep the road open and communities connected during natural disasters.
Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Kristy McBain:
"These upgrades to Culmaran Creek and Tunglebung Creek will significantly strengthen Clarence Way's flood immunity, giving local communities a safer and far more reliable connection during the severe weather they face all too often.
"By raising road levels and installing new culvert structures, this investment directly tackles the long-standing flooding issues along Clarence Way and delivers the kind of durable infrastructure regional motorists deserve.
"The completion of these two major projects marks an important step in reducing isolation during natural disasters, improving emergency access and building long-term resilience for the communities that depend on this vital route."
Quotes attributable to NSW Minister for Recovery, Janelle Saffin:
"Clarence Way is a vital connection for communities west of the range, and these upgrades mean fewer closures, safer travel and stronger resilience when severe weather hits.
"These projects show what can be achieved when all levels of government work together to support regional communities recovering from repeated flood events.
"By investing in flood immunity now, we are reducing future disruption, supporting local economies and helping communities stay connected when it matters most."
Quotes attributable to Kyogle Council Mayor, Danielle Mulholland:
"These projects are truly transformative for our community, reducing the number of times Clarence Way is cut during heavy rain and improving safety for everyone who relies on this road.
"This investment of over $7 million would not have been possible with the support of State and Federal governments.
"These two flood immunity projects will make a real and lasting difference to our community and I want to thank all levels of Government for their support, as well as everyone who was involved in successfully completing the projects."
