Motorists will benefit from safer journeys along the Golden Highway at Cassilis with upgrade work starting next week to reduce the risk and severity of crashes.
The NSW Labor Government is investing $1.6 million from the Safer Roads Program to upgrade a 750-metre section of the highway and Cassilis Road intersection.
The safety upgrade will involve widening the highway to provide a left-turn lane into Cassilis Road from the highway as well as the installation of safety barriers, solar flag lighting at the intersection with Cassilis Road and signage to alert motorists of the curve.
Rumble strips will be installed along the edge and centrelines to reduce the risk of off-road and head-on crashes, particularly at night and in adverse weather conditions.
Line marking will also be upgraded and vegetation cleared to improve sight distance for motorists.
Starting on Monday 8 April, work will be carried out from 7am to 6pm on weekdays and from 8am to 1pm on Saturdays.
Traffic control, single lane closures and a reduced speed limit of 40 km/h will be in place during work hours, which may affect travel times.
Motorists are advised to drive to the conditions and follow the directions of signs and traffic control.
Work on the project is expected to be completed in up to eight weeks, weather permitting.
Regional Transport and Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison said:
"The Golden Highway is one of our most important freight corridors, servicing coal mining, grain production and other industries in the Hunter Valley and Central West.
"The project is a huge win for many and will benefit around 2000 motorists who use this section of the highway each day.
"These safety upgrades are important in ensuring all road users make it home safely to their loved ones every night.
"The NSW Government is committed to advocating for regional road users and this is another example of us getting the work done."
NSW Duty MLC for Upper Hunter Emily Suvaal said:
"This vital road corridor upgrade will improve journeys for the thousands of motorists and freight operators travelling to, from and around the Upper Hunter.
"Well done to Upper Hunter Shire Council who will deliver the project on behalf of Transport for NSW.
"We know it can be challenging for motorists so a big thank you to all our road users for their patience as this important work is carried out."
