Road upgrades that pave the way for the state's Renewable Energy Zones (REZs) will start within weeks, after the NSW Government awarded the contract to deliver the first stage of the $128 million Port to REZ Program.
The program will upgrade key roads and intersections to make it possible to transport the oversized equipment needed to build renewable energy projects in regional NSW, and leave improved roads for the whole community.
The Minns Labor Government is investing $110.5 million to build better roads that benefit communities and support the delivery of vital infrastructure and affordable renewable energy. The Australian Government is investing another $18 million in this project.
The first stage of works includes upgrades at 19 locations from the Port of Newcastle to Elong Elong near Dubbo, unlocking access to the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone.
Australian company BMD Constructions Pty Ltd has been awarded the contract to deliver these works. Construction is expected to start within weeks. The project will create 60 jobs during construction.
The upgrades will include pavement widening, drainage adjustments, new turning lanes and relocation or adjustment of utilities, depending on the location.
Once delivered, the upgrades will benefit all motorists by reducing delay times, easing travel through intersections and improving road safety.
Construction will commence at several locations, including Selwyn Street in Mayfield North, Lonsdale Street in Jerrys Plains, Vinegaroy Road in Cassilis and Barneys Reef Road in Dunedoo.
It's expected many upgrades will be completed this year. The Port to REZ program will continue to investigate further works across NSW.
To view the upgrades at the 19 locations, visit the Port to REZ interactive map.
Quote attributable to Minister for Energy, Penny Sharpe:
"This contract marks a key milestone in delivering road upgrades from the Hunter to the Central West.
"Renewable energy projects across the state require large components to be moved along our road network, and the upgrades to local roads will improve safety and comfort for all users."
Quote attributable to Minister for the Hunter, Yasmin Catley:
"The Port to REZ program is an important investment in our region's future - we are building better roads that will not only benefit the community but help deliver critical infrastructure and create local jobs.
"The Hunter has powered the state for decades and this project will help ensure we continue to be an energy powerhouse for further decades to come."
Quote attributable to Minister for Roads and Regional Transport, Jenny Aitchison:
"The appointment of a contractor to lead the work to enable the safe movement of wind and solar farm components on the road network is great news.
"These 19 road upgrades will result in greater capacity and a safer road environment from the Port of Newcastle, through the Hunter and then into the Central West where these farms will be located.
"The beneficiaries will be all motorists, not just those driving the oversized loads."
