The NSW Government marked the construction of the M6 motorway project with a sod-turning event in South Sydney today.
The M6 Stage 1 will link Kogarah with the M8, slashing travel times and bypassing up to 23 sets of traffic lights. The construction will also create up to 5,500 jobs.
Premier Dominic Perrottet said the new tunnels would remove 10,000 cars a day from General Holmes Drive, returning local roads to local communities.
"Drivers will be able to get home safer and quicker but for many areas, removing vehicles from local roads will be life changing," Mr Perrottet said.
"We know that taking Sydney from good to great isn't only about building new destinations, it's about unlocking free-flowing transport for everyone to enjoy everything this city has to offer."
"It's great news that major construction work is about to get underway on the M6, which will be crucial in connecting Sydney's motorway network.
"Our economic recovery will also be bolstered by the up to 5,500 jobs this project will create."
The M6 Stage 1 will deliver a 4km twin tunnel that connects the completed M8 to President Avenue at Kogarah.
Minister for Transport and Roads Rob Stokes said the M6 will provide motorists with better connectivity and more reliable trips to Sydney's south.
"This project will help reduce traffic on General Homes Drive, which is another major artery, by about 10,000 vehicles a day when the project opens," Mr Stokes said.
"We're also incredibly pleased that all community benefits for this project will be delivered before Christmas this year, including two playgrounds, a war memorial and FIFA grade playing fields.
"This demonstrates our approach to delivering community benefits up front following extensive consultation shows great infrastructure really does deliver great places."
The M6 Stage 1 is expected to open in 2025.
