One of the busiest roads in the Maitland LGA, Haussman Drive, will undergo a $14 million makeover next month.
It comes after the Commonwealth allocated $3.74 million under the Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program and Maitland City Council (MCC) contributed a similar amount towards expanding the thoroughfare to two lanes each way between Raymond Terrace Road and Taylor Avenue.
The NSW Government and MCC are also investing another $6.9 million to construct a roundabout at the intersection of Haussman Drive and Taylor Avenue.
“These upgrades will go some way towards improving traffic flow,” Maitland City mayor Philip Penfold said.
“So, we’re proud to deliver $14 million worth of road improvements for the people of Thornton, Chisholm and surrounds with the support of the Australian and NSW governments.
“We know more needs to be done in this area, particularly at the intersection of Haussman Drive and Raymond Terrace Road.
“And, we’ll continue working with our federal and state counterparts to secure more funding for further improvements in our community.”
The venture will make it easier for motorists exiting Thornton via Taylor Avenue, as well as reduce some of the pressure on peak-hour traffic along Haussman Drive, according to Paterson MP Meryl Swanson.
“It’s fantastic to see these upgrades occurring,” she said.
“Our community is growing fast… and our roads need to keep up – not just for smoother travel, but to keep everyone safe.
“Projects like the duplication and the new roundabout show what’s possible when federal, state and local governments work together to deliver the infrastructure everyone deserves.
“This is exactly the kind of practical investment that supports growth and strengthens our neighbourhoods.”
Maitland MP, and NSW Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison echoed those sentiments.
“We’re duplicating Haussman Drive and building a new roundabout at Taylor Avenue to ease congestion and improve safety for all road-users,” she said.
“Thornton and Chisholm have been the fastest growing areas in the state, so the congestion here is a real frustration, especially during peak times.
“That’s why we’re working with the Commonwealth and council to deliver this venture.”
Crews will minimise disruptions where possible, with changed traffic conditions reported via Live Traffic.
As part of the Thornton North development plan, further works are slated for Haussman Drive but subject to grant funding.
It includes upgrading the Raymond Terrace Road-Haussman Drive intersection with traffic lights and constructing a shared path connecting Harvest Boulevard and Settlers Boulevard, in Chisholm, to Haussman Drive.
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