Daracon Contractors Pty Ltd is signed to deliver the first stage of the long-awaited $35 million Hillsborough Road upgrade.
And, the company will soon begin work to enhance the Crockett Street intersection, including installing new traffic lights and duplicating 700 metres of Hillsborough Road.
The project should ultimately transform the full 1.8-kilometre stretch of Hillsborough Road between the Newcastle Inner City Bypass roundabout and the existing duplication west of Crockett Street.
“This is the moment Lake Macquarie residents have been waiting for – the green light to get boots on the ground,” Lake Macquarie Independent Greg Piper said.
“The Hillsborough Road upgrade is an essential investment for our local infrastructure, which will pave the way for safer, faster, and more reliable travel for everyone.
“It’ll not only ease congestion and improve travel times but also enhance safety and support economic growth.”
Early site establishment activities will begin in April, with major construction expected to start in May and take about 18 months to complete, depending on staging arrangements.
NSW Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison admitted the latest step was a “big milestone”.
“It is fantastic news for the 36,000 motorists who rely on this road every day,” she said.
“After years of congestion and frustration for local drivers, we’re getting on with the job of delivering real upgrades that make a difference.”
Due to the importance of the heavily-utilised thoroughfare, the community helped shaped the venture.
Transport for NSW (TfNSW) then consulted on the concept design and environmental assessment in 2022, publishing the submissions report in August 2023.
“We know Hillsborough Road is a critical link for those travelling to, from and around Lake Macquarie,” Charlestown MP Jodie Harrison said.
“The region is rapidly expanding, which is why upgrades such as these are critical in supporting future growth.”
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