ONE year ago, a new section of highway that was decades in the making was officially opened.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
For many years, the entrance to Bathurst via the Great Western Highway had been one lane in either direction, with lots of traffic lights along the way.
The 2.8 kilometre stretch of road was often plagued by congestion and wouldn’t win any awards for appearance.
But in October, 2014, the NSW Government’s budget was in a position to allow for an $85 million dollar upgrade and works commenced.
The new section was officially opened on March 21, 2017, three months ahead of schedule and at a cost of $19 million more than originally planned, due to unexpected issues during construction.
Member for Bathurst Paul Toole said that the expansion of the highway to two lanes in either direction had proven very effective in managing traffic.
“The investment that was made by the NSW Government of $104 million has been a huge success,” he said.
“That was a section of road that had been talked about for two decades, but nothing was done until now.
“In Bathurst alone, we have a number of major events throughout the year and this has eased traffic congestion going in and out of the city.”
The works not only included widening the road and installing two major roundabouts, but involved environmental improvements too, where 600 trees, 4000 shrubs and 8000 groundcover plants were added to the area.
“As those trees continue growing and developing, they will continue to beautify that area,” Mr Toole said.
When the project was completed, and even during construction, people were quick to ask if the NSW Government planned to continue its efforts out towards Raglan.
Counillor Ian North was one of those people, saying that the highway wouldn’t be able to cope with the increasing congestion as the suburb grows.
- READ MORE: Call for Great Western Highway upgrade to continue to Raglan
- READ MORE: Sights set on Raglan
Mr Toole said he hasn’t forgotten about the Great Western Highway.
“Rest assured that we are continuing to look at big projects throughout the region,” he said.
“That roadway from Kelso out to the airport is a high priority for me and one that I am continuing to lobby for.”