BATHURST CBD motorists are warned to expect delays from Wednesday when work on a new roundabout at one of the city’s busiest intersections gets under way.
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Work at the intersection of George and Howick streets – the first roundabout ever installed in Bathurst – will also include stormwater drainage works.
Traffic will be impacted for up to three months as the work is completed, but mayor Graeme Hanger said it was necessary to improve safety and traffic flow at the intersection.
“This is a large and complex project in one of busiest intersections in the city centre,” he said.
“I know this will have an impact on many residents who use the intersection and the surrounding businesses, so I am asking for the community’s support and patience while this crucial project is under way.”
The first stage of the project involves water crews relocating the water mains that are underneath the roundabout. This will have some impact on traffic flow for the duration of the work, which will take about five weeks.
It is anticipated that the second phase will start on Tuesday, February 5 where the roundabout will be fully closed to traffic while it is replaced and rebuilt.
There will be U-Turn areas on each of the streets near the roundabout, so traffic can access businesses along the blocks adjoining the intersection.
Pedestrian access will remain in place for the duration of the works, which will be about eight weeks.
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Access to businesses near the intersection can be gained by using Rankin, William and Russell Streets. There will still be parking available in George and Howick Streets.
Traffic issues, including congestion in parts of George Street, have been a source of frustration for drivers.
After several investigations by Bathurst Regional Council and Roads and Maritime Services, the studies concluded that the reconstruction of the roundabout and removing marked pedestrian crossing to replace them with pedestrian refuges would ease congestion.
For more information on this project or to stay up to date with the latest information, visit the Bathurst YourSay website, council’s Facebook page or phone 6333 6100.