A major upgrade is expected to enhance Mandalong’s Deaves Road after the route sustained severe damage during the April 2022 storms.
The multi-million-dollar project, backed by a joint investment from the state and federal governments through the Regional Roads and Transport Recovery Package (RRTRP) and Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, will improve a 2.1-kilometre stretch between Crawford and Mandalong roads.
It’ll also reconstruct the pavement and install up-to-date culverts designed to better manage heavy rainfall, strengthening the corridor against future weather events and keeping residents, businesses and emergency services moving.
“Deaves Road is a crucial local link in the fast-growing Lake Macquarie region and traffic on the road has been growing steadily in recent years,” Lake Macquarie Independent MP Greg Piper said.
“Demand is only going to increase as the population in the south-western area continues to rise.
“So, this is an important venture.”
Deaves Road remains a vital connection between Mandalong, Cooranbong and Morisset, and serves as a significant alternative route to the M1 Pacific Motorway.
The latest investment, estimated at $8.7 million, will future-proof the corridor for decades to come.
“When Deaves Road goes under, the whole community feels it,” Hunter MP Dan Repacholi said.
“This upgrade is about getting ahead of the problem.
“By strengthening the pavement and improving drainage, we’re making sure the road can better handle heavy rain and keep people moving when it matters most.”
It’s understood Lake Macquarie City Council will deliver the work, which began with site set-up in mid-February.
“The project will deliver a safer, stronger Deaves Road that the community can rely on,” Lake Macquarie City mayor Adam Shultz said.
“That’s through the next storm and the next decade.
“By future-proofing this critical link, we are strengthening a key transport route and ensuring emergency services, locals and visitors alike can travel with confidence in all conditions.
“We value the support from our state and federal partners.
“This level of collaboration allows us to deliver resilient infrastructure and long-term benefits for the community.”
The highly-anticipated venture is expected to be finished and open to traffic in April 2027, weather permitting.
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