The sod has been turned for the duplication of the Barton Highway – a project that will improve safety, reduce travel times and increase freight productivity for the 13,000 motorists who use the corridor every day.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the Australian and NSW Governments are investing $100 million to upgrade the Barton Highway.
“The Barton Highway is an essential part of the NSW and ACT transport network, connecting communities to essential services, employment, health care, education opportunities and supporting freight movement,” Mr McCormack said.
“It will also meet the growing transport demands, ease congestion approaching the Canberra region and improve safety for through, local and tourist traffic along the corridor.
“The Australian Government has also committed a further $100 million towards the project, subject to further planning.”
NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole said the project will be delivered by the Barton Highway Upgrade Alliance with contractors Seymour Whyte Constructions and SMEC partnering with Transport for NSW.
“This project will support 80 jobs over a three-year period to duplicate the existing highway, currently a single lane in each direction from the ACT border towards Murrumbateman,” Mr Toole said.
“Early works will involve site establishment and utility relocation work, with major works to build what will ultimately be new northbound lanes from the ACT border to Kaveneys Road to start early in 2021.”
Senator for New South Wales Jim Molan said the highway duplication work had been prioritised to start from Hall, rather than Murrumbateman or Yass.
“This section was identified as the priority for duplication as it has higher traffic volumes and a higher crash rate than other sections, which will be upgraded in later stages of this project,” Senator Molan said.
Member for Goulburn Wendy Tuckerman said the start of works followed a number of smaller projects, including safety upgrades to intersections and bus stops, and the installation of a $3.25 million intelligent transport system.
“The new highway is also expected to have a 100 km/h speed limit, making journeys more efficient for motorists and the freight industry,” Mrs Tuckerman said.
The initial stage of duplication is expected to be completed in 2023.
For more information about the project visit http://www.rms.nsw.gov.au/projects/barton-highway
WENDY TUCKERMAN 