Port Macquarie Hastings Council (PMHC) has completed major work at the intersection of Horton and Gordon Street, with the new intersection now operating ahead of schedule.
Eire Construction successfully completed testing on the traffic lights on Tuesday night, paving the way for the intersection to open weeks earlier than the originally advised late December date.
The new east and westbound approaches to the intersection along Gordon Street have increased from two to three, as has the southbound travel on Horton Street.
Pedestrian safety has also been improved with signalised crossings at the intersection. A new shared path on the southern side of Gordon Street has also been built to link the existing footpaths together at the entry of the Historic Cemetery.
"To have this critical link open and operating weeks in advance of the original late December deadline is incredible," Mayor Roberts said.
"It has certainly come at a very convenient time for our community, who'll now be able to enjoy a much-improved journey in and out of the CBD ahead of the busy summer holiday period.
"The strong community interest in this project shows the passion people have for traffic and transport upgrades in our community. In addition to this project, Council - in partnership with the NSW Government - is working on a significant body of work through our Integrated Transport Plan on further transport-related initiatives.
"Look out for further updates regarding this plan as Council and Transport for NSW set their sights on putting it into action."
PMHC Director Community Infrastructure Robert Fish said the Gordon and Horton Intersection provides a critical node to the Port Macquarie CBD, with more than 20,000 vehicles travelling through it each day.
"The installation of new traffic and pedestrian signals, as well as the addition of dedicated turning lanes on approach to the intersection, will now create a safer and more efficient transport environment for all road users," Mr Fish said.
"I want to thank all of the project staff who've been able to expertly balance the delicate nature of keeping businesses open, and both traffic and pedestrians moving as smoothly and safely as possible throughout the project delivery."
