The new Mount Ousley interchange has hit another milestone with major work complete on the upgraded pedestrian bridge at Northfields Avenue.
The upgraded bridge includes a new, more accessible, ramp that improves pedestrian access to the bridge by providing a gentler slope rather than a steep spiral ramp.
The improved bridge opened to the community on the evening of Monday 1 September, reinstating access across the M1 between the University of Wollongong and the TAFE at Northfields Avenue.
Major work started in January this year with temporary scaffolding put in place to ensure the bridge remained open while work was carried out.
More than 9000 people hours were worked with a total of 525 tonnes of concrete poured, 57 tonnes of reinforcement material used, and about 239 linear metres of new handrail installed.
Progress continues on the interchange, with construction of the new heavy vehicle safety ramp, heavy vehicle bypass, new bridges and retaining walls and drainage. Work is also continuing on the new retaining and noise wall next to Dumfries Avenue, which is expected to be complete by the end of this year.
The Australian and NSW governments are investing over $400 million to deliver a new interchange on the M1 Princes Motorway at the base of Mount Ousley to improve connectivity, safety and efficiency for those travelling through the gateway to Wollongong.
For the latest information in the Mount Ousley interchange project, visit https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/projects/current-projects/mount-ousley-interchange
Quotes attributable to Minister for the Illawarra and the South Coast and Member for Keira, Ryan Park:
"We've listened loud and clear; locals want safer, more accessible ways to cross around Mount Ousley Road.
"Along with the additional $12 million the Minns Labor Government is investing to build a new shared pedestrian and cyclist bridge over Mount Ousley Road, this extension and upgrade of the ramp at Northfields Avenue not only improves access for pedestrians but also provides space for crews to start construction of the new southbound access road to University Avenue."
Quotes attributable to Member for Wollongong Paul Scully:
"The Mount Ousley Interchange Upgrade is a project designed to improve safety and accessibility around Mount Ousley - whether you are on a bike or driving a B-double.
"It's good to see accessibility improvements on the Northfields Avenue pedestrian bridge, improving the pedestrian and active transport connection between the University, TAFE, surrounding suburbs and Wollongong CBD."
Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Cunningham Alison Byrnes:
"Safe access across this major road is absolutely essential for local people, and one of the key parts of this project is ensuring that this connectivity remains.
"The closure of this pedestrian bridge has been tough and I am so delighted that not only has the bridge returned - but it has been built back better, safer and more easily accessible.
"This is a win for our community and I am proud that the Australian Government has supported this crucial project with $312 million.
"We are very grateful for everyone's continued patience and understanding while these works are ongoing, as well as for the engagement of local stakeholders whose ongoing input continues to ensure we get the best outcomes possible from this project."
