Highway upgrade ‘in full swing’

BRENDAN CRABB

THE Princes Highway Dunmore-Oak Flats upgrade is in full swing, Member for Kiama and Minister for Tourism Matt Brown said on Monday.

Speaking at an inspection of the work site at Lindsay’s Lane, Flinders, Mr Brown said the upgrade was on schedule to open to traffic next year.

The $130-million project includes the construction of a four-lane divided carriageway from Oak Flats to Dunmore, the construction of the upgrade of Shellharbour Road to four lanes and a grade-separated interchange with Shellharbour Road.

The Minister said the widening of Shellharbour Road between Wattle Road and Cove Boulevard was moving ahead of schedule and would be ready to open four lanes in July next year.

“The major construction work is moving ahead smoothly,” he said.

“Despite heavy rain over the past couple of months it’s great to see the project on schedule.

“The crews on site have been working at full capacity to ensure the major earthwork is completed as quickly as possible.”

Completing work on the 5.5km deviation is part of the State Government’s plan to construct four lanes from Sydney to south of Kiama by 2010.

Other recent developments within the project include Mr Brown’s report that the bridges for the Shellharbour Road Interchange were progressing well, with scaffolding for the construction of the twin bridges over the new highway on schedule.

Work has also begun on the new embankment at Dunmore for the southbound carriageway.

While inspecting the site, Mr Brown said the project was vital to the community and would have numerous benefits for motorists.

“When completed, this new carriageway will be flood free, improving the highway’s reliability,” he said.

“Also, motorists will benefit from fewer delays during peak periods and greatly improved travel times between the South Coast and Sydney.

“The upgrade will also improve road safety along this section of the highway.”