A flashback to the first sod-turning for stage one of the Barton Highway duplication. Pictured are Water Minister Melinda Pavey, Yass Valley Mayor Rowena Abbey, Goulburn MP Wendy Tuckerman and Senator Jim Molan. Photo: Supplied.
The multi-million dollar Barton Highway duplication project has started with major work to build two new lanes northbound on the highway from south of the NSW-ACT border to the intersection of Rolfe Road.
While initial preparation work on the $200 million project began last November, this week has seen the start of the construction work that will directly benefit the 13,000 motorists and heavy vehicle operators who travel along this section of road every day.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said, once complete, the highway duplication would better connect communities, deliver new job opportunities and increase access to essential services.
“Major work is now under way on the new lanes following the completion of preparation works such as initial fencing, utility relocations and site set up,” Mr McCormack said.
“In good news for local communities, this first stage of duplication works on the Barton Highway are expected to be extended by a further 2.5 kilometres out to Kaveney’s Road.”
The Federal and NSW Governments have each invested $50 million for the first stage of work.
NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole said the Barton Highway duplication was just one of many highways across the state being upgraded to ensure safer and stronger regions.
“Eventually, the Barton Highway will be duplicated from Hall in the ACT to the existing two-lane section on the Hume Highway, bypassing Murrumbateman, which will deliver a fully duplicated highway connection from Sydney to Canberra,” Mr Toole said.
Goulburn MP Wendy Tuckerman said locals were playing a critical role in the delivery of the Barton Highway duplication project with about 70 per cent of the workforce made up of local workers, businesses and suppliers.
“About 200 people from the local area have been inducted since work started with the local contribution critical to finishing early work, and will be integral as we start major construction work,” Mrs Tuckerman said.
“The local workforce is involved with jobs such as traffic control, line marking, plumbing, fencing, sealing, sediment control, and equipment hire.
“It’s pleasing to see work progress with the expertise of so many local people and businesses, particularly after a challenging 12 months during the pandemic.”
The Australian and NSW Governments have committed a combined $200 million to upgrade the Barton Highway with the work being delivered by the Barton Highway Upgrade Alliance – a partnership of Transport for NSW, Seymour Whyte and SMEC.
The initial stage of duplication is expected to be completed in 2023, weather permitting.
Original Article published by Kim Treasure on The RiotACT.
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