Council advises users of Plumpton Road that works are commencing on the $66 million project, which involves the duplication of Plumpton Road and intersection upgrades.
Project activities will start on Monday 19 January 2026, weather permitting, with the early works including site establishment, vegetation removal, and new sewer and water main underground services across the 5.2-kilometre project corridor.
Appropriate traffic management measures, including intermittent lane disruptions, will be in place to maintain safe access through the area during the works, which are being carried out between 7am and 4pm on weekdays.
Executive Manager - Major Projects Darryl Woods says these works have been scheduled for during the school holiday period, when traffic volumes are typically lower.
In preparation for this phase of the project, the first 120+ nest boxes were installed to minimise the impacts of the upgrade on the native flora and fauna in the area.
Regular nest box inspections will take place throughout the project and after its completion, while re-vegetation and landscaping activities will be undertaken post construction.
"The Stage 1 vegetation removal plan identifies approximately 110 mature trees and saplings of various sizes," Mr Woods said.
"This is to support the efficient delivery of subsequent construction stages of the project which is necessary for the early works. Additional vegetation removal will be required as the project progresses into the next stages.
"We have been working closely with the contractor, engineers, an ecologist and the arborist to ensure the vegetation removal and timing of works has the least impact on the habitat, flora and fauna.
"We have also confirmed that no feasible alternatives are available through design to avoid removal of the identified trees.
"We acknowledge that vegetation removal can be a concern for the community and appreciate their understanding as this necessary stage is undertaken to enable long-term road safety and transport improvements along Plumpton Road."
Plumpton Road users are advised to expect temporary changed traffic conditions during the vegetation removal and other early works along the project corridor.
"This will help minimise disruption to road users and the broader community and improve safety outcomes for motorists, pedestrians, cyclists, and the contractors working adjacent to live traffic," Mr Woods said.
"During the lane disruptions, other lanes will remain open under traffic control, ensuring that traffic can continue to flow."
The NSW Government has invested $49.57 million in the project through the Accelerated Infrastructure Fund Round 3, alongside a $16.52 million contribution from Wagga Wagga City Council.
