NORTHERN Tablelands MP Adam Marshall has today announced $1.8 million in State Government funding to undertake the reconstruction of a 2.5 kilometre section of the Gwydir Highway, between Wellingrove Street and West Furracabad Road, three kilometres west of Glen Innes.
Mr Marshall said the project, scheduled to get underway next Monday, 19 October, was one of a number of road and bridge upgrade works worth $74.6 million slated for the Northern Tablelands over the next 12 months.
“I’m delighted to announce such a large investment by the government in our region to upgrade the Gwydir Highway to make it a safer and more efficient freight route and transport link,” Mr Marshall said.
“This project is recognition of the importance of the highway to our region and the increasing amount of traffic it carries, particularly heavy vehicles.”
Mr Marshall said the $1.8 million upgrade project would dramatically improve current road conditions and reduce ongoing maintenance costs on the stretch of road.
“The work will involve placing new road base material, bitumen resealing and line marking to improve safety for all motorists,” he said.
“Weather permitting, work is expected to take about 10 weeks and working hours will be from Monday to Saturday, 7am to 6pm.
“There will be some noise associated with this work but Roads and Maritime Services will make every effort to minimise noise.”
Mr Marshall said there would be some temporary traffic changes on the highway to ensure the work zone was safe.
“Traffic flow will be reduced to one lane during work hours and an escort vehicle will be in use to ensure the safety of road users and workers,” Mr Marshall said. “Access to Tuttles Lane, Abbotts and West Furracabad Roads will be maintained.
“Traffic changes may cause delays of up to 15 minutes during work hours so motorists should allow extra travel time, keep to the speed limits and follow the direction of traffic controllers and signs.
“Up to date information, including any date changes and detours, will be displayed on electronic message signs along the road.”
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