Work will soon get underway on long sought-after upgrades at the intersection of Raymond Terrace and Government roads in Thornton.
The $26 million project includes a four-way juncture to replace the current three-way crossing.
Traffic lights will be built, with both roads widened to allow for two through lanes in each direction and right turn bays.
Construction of the new intersection leg is expected to cater for future development to the north – and would be linked to the existing network in coming years.
Improved street lighting and accessibility to buses in the area will significantly, and positively, impact traffic flow and commuter safety.
Maitland City mayor Philip Penfold joined representatives from council and Transport for NSW to turn the first sod, on the job, during the week.
“This is a win for the people of Maitland,” he said.
“I am looking forward to the widespread benefits of the works.
“The residents of Thornton and Chisholm have been calling for this for several years now.
“So, it’s something of a relief for them to see these upgrades finally get underway.”
At least $9.5 million of the funding came via the NSW Government’s Housing Acceleration Fund, while Maitland City Council is subsiding the remainder of the work, primarily through Section 7.11 Developer Contributions, collected from the Thornton North Urban Release Area.
Cr Penfold admitted council was proud to contribute a significant amount to the project.
“I know our officers have worked very hard in a challenging global supply chain and resourcing conditions to get us to a point where work can start,” he said.
“Raymond Terrace Road is one of the busier thoroughfares in our LGA and feeds thousands of commuters daily through our city and beyond.
“So, these works will have widely felt benefits.”
Pending conditions, work is expected to finish in mid-2024.
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