All lanes on the new Nowra bridge will soon open to traffic for the first time as the long-awaited project nears full completion.
Reduced congestion, shorter travel times and improved safety benefits will flow to motorists and pedestrians moving between Nowra and Bomaderry once permanent line marking is done.
The opening of all lanes is the final major milestone to be achieved as part of the $342 million Nowra Bridge project, which has been jointly funded by the Albanese and Minns Governments.
Final minor finishing work across the project, with minimal traffic impacts, will continue into 2024 with landscaping, small pavement and footpath jobs, and restoration of the site compound areas due to be completed by mid-2024 - weather permitting.
Once complete, a separate set of work will start on planning for the historic Nowra bridge's new chapter and rehabilitation.
Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King said:
"The finish line for major work on this project is firmly in sight and the countdown is on.
"More than 50,000 vehicles use this section of the Princes Highway each day, so drivers are sure to notice a difference when the new additional lanes open in both directions."
Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips said:
"It's fantastic to see major work is almost finished and this is a huge achievement after our years of natural disasters and the pandemic.
"I know the works have been disruptive, but what a difference the new Bridge will now make to locals every single day - I'm delighted to have helped deliver this incredibly important project for our region.
"The new Bridge is just one piece of the puzzle to fix traffic congestion in the Nowra area, and I am excited to see both the Albanese and Minns Governments moving forward to progress the projects we need for our future."
NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison said:
"This achievement is a credit to the community for its patience and understanding throughout the project, and to the 2,590 workers who have clocked up more than one million hours combined to deliver this project.
"With the additional lanes on the highway and upgraded intersections at Bolong, Illaroo and Bridge roads, journeys between Bomaderry and Nowra will improve and we'll start to see congestion ease on the highway."
State Member for South Coast Liza Butler said:
"In addition to improved safety, capacity and efficiency, the Nowra Bridge project has also delivered better freight access across the Shoalhaven River by removing over-size and over-mass restrictions.
"The project will also deliver improved pedestrian and cycle access at all signalised intersections and along the newly upgraded section of the highway."
Member of the NSW Legislative Council and Duty MLC for the Kiama electorate Dr Sarah Kaine said:
"This is a fantastic piece of new infrastructure for the South Coast and I am so pleased to see both levels of government working together to improve travel times and road safety.
"Thanks to everyone in the community for their patience while construction work has taken place, the finished product has been well worth the wait."
