Martinsville is now home to safer and smoother transport links following the construction of three new bridges in the valley.
Two bridges along Owens Road and one on Pointers Road were replaced over the past 12 months to bring them into line with modern standards and load limits.
Lake Macquarie Mayor Adam Shultz said the new bridges would provide better access to about 50 semi-rural properties in the area.
"Not only do these new structures allow for improved access to properties and transport through the Martinsville valley, but they also ensure that emergency services can access the area in a timely and efficient manner, when necessary," he said.
The $11.86 million project was majority funded by more than $7.5 million from the Australian Government's Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure program (formerly known as the Bridges Renewal Program).
Lake Macquarie City contributed more than $2.6 million to the project, while the New South Wales Government provided more than $1.6 million under the Fixing Country Roads program for the Owens Road bridges.
Federal Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, Kristy McBain, emphasised the importance of strong and reliable bridges in rural communities like Martinsville, which rely on local freight access.
Drawing from her experience of driving hundreds of thousands of kilometres across NSW, she acknowledged the critical need for well-maintained infrastructure in these areas.
"Heavy freight trucks as well as regular day to day transport can now use the bridges on Owens Road and Pointers Road which is a great future proofing fix for the Martinsville community," Ms McBain said.
Federal Member for Hunter Dan Repacholi welcomed this safety improvement to the aged and deteriorating timber bridges, now upgraded to provide a smooth, efficient, and reliable passage for everyday traffic.
He also highlighted their importance for locals who rely on them for essential heavy vehicle and emergency access.
"I'm pleased to see this project has delivered reliable transport links in Martinsville, thanks to Australian Government funding in partnership with the NSW Government and Lake Macquarie City," Mr Repacholi said.
State Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison said the NSW Government was committed to supporting rural areas with suitable infrastructure.
"The Martinsville project is a great example of all tiers of government combining to deliver great outcomes for regional communities," Ms Aitchison said.
"This funding is all about making sure people have the roads and transport routes they need - and deserve - to stay connected."
Daracon Group led the construction of the two Owens Road bridges, while Toisch Pty Ltd was contracted to deliver the Pointers Road bridge.
All works were completed on time and under budget.
