The Commonwealth and New South Wales Governments are working to build a safer and stronger regional and rural NSW road network, with work starting next week to seal and widen an 18-kilometre section of Silverton Road in the Far West of the state.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said both governments were jointly investing more than $1.4 million to improve journeys on Silverton Road, which connects the historic mining village of Silverton with Broken Hill.
"I know how vital safe and efficient roads are for locals, visitors and freight operators alike in regional NSW, which is what this sealing and widening project is all about," the Deputy Prime Minister said.
"This is part of our record $110 billion infrastructure investment pipeline, which is rolling out projects right across Australia, supporting much-needed jobs and regional economies at a time when it is needed most."
NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole said work would kick off on Monday 15 February to widen the road and road shoulders and provide line marking, improving safety for all motorists visiting Silverton.
"We know more and more people are venturing out on road trips to explore this part of the state - and this work will ensure safer journeys for both tourists and locals," Mr Toole said.
"This will be a welcome project for the local community, with 18 jobs to be supported while work is carried out."
Federal Member for Parkes and Minister for Local Government Mark Coulton said the Australian Government investment through the Local Road and Community Infrastructure Program (LRCI) will provide reliable all-weather access to Silverton.
"The Silverton Road upgrade is a major win for the local community and a great example of the federal and state government working together to deliver for the Parkes electorate," Minister Coulton said.
"I am pleased to hear locals will soon be reaping the benefits, with work expected to be completed within just 14 weeks, weather permitting.
"The $1.5 billion LRCI is helping local councils right across NSW and the nation to deliver priority local road and community infrastructure projects that will make a real difference in their region."
The project is jointly funded, with the Australian Government committing $969,679 under the Local Road and Community Infrastructure Program and the NSW Government $500,000 under the Flexible Pavement Patching Program.
Work will be carried out from 6.30am to 6pm on weekdays and 6.30am to 1pm on Saturdays.
Temporary traffic changes to ensure the progressive work zone is safe, including lane closures and a 40 km/h speed limit will be in place during work hours. There may be some changes to driveway access during work and any affected property owners will be contacted with traffic control on site to assist.
Motorists should allow up to five minutes extra travel time, and follow the direction of traffic control and signs. For the latest traffic updates download the Live Traffic NSW App, visit the Live Traffic NSW website or call 132 701.
