The Minns Labor Government is continuing its work to build more connected regional communities, with work powering ahead on the M1 to Raymond Terrace project between Black Hill and Tomago.
A series of traffic changes or 'switches' will take place over the next few months, paving the way for the final stages of the project.
The switches, which move traffic onto newly-constructed sections of road, allow construction teams to begin work in areas that are currently under traffic.
There are three significant traffic switches between August and September this year.
The first, which occurs at the beginning of August, will see traffic from the existing northbound lane of the Pacific Highway at Tomago move onto the new road and bridge opposite Tomago Road. This section of road forms part of the permanent on-ramp for the Tomago interchange.
Six to eight weeks later, southbound traffic will also be moved to the west, onto new pavement under a new bridge near Old Punt Road.
These changes open up a large work area on the existing Pacific Highway, allowing crews to power on with this transformational project.
Following on from this, at the southbound M1 Pacific Motorway, traffic from Beresfield will be moved onto a new section of the road, including a new bridge, to allow works on the Black Hill interchange to progress.
This will be shortly followed by another shift, where westbound traffic on the New England Highway will be diverted beneath a bridge currently under construction at Tarro, which will ultimately form part of the Tarro interchange.
The $2.1 billion M1 to Raymond Terrace project will remove up to 25,000 vehicles from the roads per day and cut travel times by 7 to 9 minutes in peak periods when the project opens in 2028.
More information on the M1 to Raymond Terrace project can be found on the Carportal website.
Jenny Aitchison, NSW Minister for Roads said:
"Major projects like this don't happen overnight, but we're seeing strong progress on this monumental project.
"These traffic switches are critical steps that allow crews to push ahead with new bridges, ramps and pavement, all designed to deliver a faster, safer and more reliable journey.
"The Minns Labor Government is committed to improving connectivity right across regional NSW, and this upgrade is a prime example of that vision in action."
Yasmin Catley, Minister for the Hunter said:
"The Hunter deserves infrastructure that really reflects how strong our communities are and the huge potential of our region.
"This upgrade isn't just about cutting down travel times - it's also about creating jobs, making the roads safer and setting us up for the future.
"These latest changes show we're heading in the right direction on a big project that's going to benefit our region for years to come."
Sonia Hornery, Member for Wallsend said:
"This project is a big win for local families and businesses who rely on this corridor every day.
"By removing one of the worst traffic choke points in the region, we're improving travel times, making journeys safer and boosting connections across the Hunter.
"It's great to see work powering ahead and delivering real benefits for our community."
Tim Crakanthorp, Member for Newcastle said:
"This project is a game-changer for Newcastle, making it easier for locals, visitors and freight to get where they need to go safely and on time.
"The M1 to Raymond Terrace upgrade will take pressure off surrounding roads, support local businesses, and improve connections to the port.
"These latest traffic changes are an important milestone in delivering a modern, reliable transport network for our growing region."
Kate Washington, Member for Port Stephens said:
"The people of Port Stephens are delighted to see this project powering ahead.
"This critical project sat in the slow lane for a decade until Labor formed Government and kicked it into gear.
"When it's completed, it'll make a huge difference to local lives - busting congestion and making travel safer."
Meryl Swanson, Federal Member for Paterson said:
"This is an intergenerational project that will ease congestion, improve safety, and boost growth - and I'm proud to be part of an Albanese Labor government that's delivering for our community.
"These traffic changes are a clear sign that the M1 Extension is becoming a reality. They're making way for the major infrastructure our region has needed for decades."
