A major upgrade to the road network in the heart of Cooranbong is helping unlock the potential of one of the state's fastest growing regional centres.
The Alton Road intersection upgrade project was officially opened on Tuesday morning, with Minister for Hunter Yasmin Catley and Member for Lake Macquarie Greg Piper joining Lake Macquarie Mayor Kay Fraser to christen the crossroads.
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said the project was a game-changer for the increasingly busy thoroughfare.
"The NSW Government and Lake Macquarie City Council have teamed up to future-proof this important intersection for motorists in Cooranbong, so they will have less congestion and a safer road to travel on," he said.
"With more than $195 million in approved developments flowing through Cooranbong in the past financial year alone, it's vitally important to support the rapid expansion of Lake Macquarie's south-west."
The project involved construction of signalised intersections at Alton Road and Freemans Drive, and University Drive and Freemans Drive, including signalised pedestrian crossings, median islands, additional lanes, drainage improvement works, footpaths and kerb ramps.
Cr Fraser said residents, businesses and visitors would benefit from the upgrade.
"Not only will this intersection upgrade improve traffic flow, travel time, safety and connectivity through Cooranbong, it comes as a massive boost to accessibility for emergency services and to goods and services in the town centre," she said.
"This is another example of how Council and the NSW Government strive to support communities across Lake Mac with the infrastructure they need and deserve."
The project was funded by $4.95 million from the NSW Government through the Department of Planning via development contributions secured by State Voluntary Planning Agreements and contributions from Lake Macquarie Council.
The State Voluntary Planning Agreements program aims to collect development contributions to reinvest into local communities to deliver essential infrastructure.
