Motorists in Williamtown will soon be enjoying smoother and safer journeys along Cabbage Tree Road with a multimillion-dollar safety upgrade about to get underway.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Barnaby Joyce said the Australian and NSW governments are jointly funding this $4 million upgrade through the Road Safety Program to provide a stronger, longer lasting and safer road.
"Cabbage Tree Road is an important link to the Newcastle Airport and RAAF Base at Williamtown, which is used by about 8,862 vehicles each day including 1,772 heavy vehicles," the Deputy Prime Minister said.
"Improving safety along this 2.6-kilometre section between Nelson Bay Road and Barrie Close is important for locals, business and tourists as there have been 11 crashes between 2013 and 2018.
"This project will also help support about 40 jobs and provide work for 5 contractors over the next eight weeks."
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway said Transport for NSW has engaged Port Stephens Council to carry out the work, which includes widening the road over the full 2.6 kilometres to provide 3.5 metre travel lanes and 1.5 metre sealed shoulders.
"As well as widening and resurfacing the road, crews will be installing a wider painted centreline to improve safety and reduce the likelihood of head-on crashes," Mr Farraway said.
"Work will also be carried out to install new safety barriers and improve drainage, reducing the risks of water over the road."
Works will commence Wednesday 27 April and carried out from 7am to 6pm on weekdays and Saturdays. A detour will be in place for westbound motorists from 6am to 6pm weekdays and Saturdays.
Work is expected to be complete in eight weeks, weather permitting.
Motorists are advised to plan ahead as the detour is expected to add up to 18 kilometres to journeys, which is about 15 minutes travel time. Access will be maintained for residents, local businesses, school buses and emergency services.
Information about the project, westbound detour and traffic arrangements is available at nswroads.work/cabbagetreerd
The Australian Government committed $297.4 million and the NSW Government a further $108.9 million to fund statewide upgrades under the first tranche of the Road Safety Program.
