Wollongong City Council's long-term vision for West Dapto continues to take shape, with major road upgrades to Fowlers Road between Fairwater Drive and Cleveland Road now underway.
These works form Stage 1 of Cleveland Road upgrade and include road-widening, new shared paths, stormwater works, street lighting and tree planting to improve access for traffic and pedestrians.
Upgrades to key access roads is an essential part of our West Dapto Access Strategy to build connected communities through efficient roads and transport infrastructure, that also provide options for public and active transport.
This aligns with the broader objectives of our West Dapto Vision outlining Council's approach to the urban release that is essential to ensuring Wollongong's housing future.
The project is co-funded by Wollongong City Council and a $20.03 million funding contribution from the NSW Government's Housing Acceleration Fund.
"West Dapto is vital to the future housing needs of our community, and it is important that the delivery of essential road infrastructure is carefully planned and carried out," Lord Mayor of Wollongong Councillor Tania Brown said.
"With the population in the area growing rapidly, it is important that we complete these works in a timely and safe manner. We appreciate the patience of residents while we deliver this much needed infrastructure for the long-term benefit of their community."
"We're immensely grateful for the funding support of the NSW Government to ensure we continue moving toward realising our vision for West Dapto over the coming years."
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces and Member for Wollongong Paul Scully said this is one of several upgrades underway across the Illawarra which will provide critical road infrastructure to support housing growth.
"It's great to see boots on the ground to deliver this crucial road upgrade which will make sure West Dapto's community is well connected to major arterials like the M1 and Princess Highway.
"Expanding the capacity of Fowlers Road will be a crucial part of unlocking West Dapto's potential and paving the way for 3,000 new homes.
"The Minns Labor Government's investment in this project is another example of our commitment to building better communities."
Member for Shellharbour, Anna Watson welcomed the start of work on what is a vital piece of enabling infrastructure.
"The Minns Labor Government is investing in the future of West Dapto, delivering infrastructure to provide vital road connectivity for this growing community.
"Upgrading Fowlers Road is central to supporting the growing community of West Dapto for years to come."
Upgrades will see 440 metres of road widened from two to four travel lanes, including kerb and gutter construction, stormwater drainage, and street lighting. The existing shared path on the eastern side of the road will be upgraded, while a new shared path will be built on the western side of the road.
Fowlers Road will remain accessible to through traffic, while a designated pedestrian path will be in place for the duration of the works, providing safe access for pedestrians, particularly for students travelling to and from school.
A traffic control plan is in place to manage pedestrian and vehicle access. There will be changes to speed limits and some minor delays may be experienced to allow for truck and construction vehicle access.
Council will continue conversations with the community throughout the construction period to best manage the impacts and ensure safe and appropriate access is maintained for residents and road users.
