The Barton Highway duplication in New South Wales is moving forward with works to commence on several intersections along a seven-kilometre stretch of the road as part of Stage 1 of the Barton Highway Upgrade Package.
“The duplication of this highway will be a game changer for locals, visitors and the freight industry travelling between NSW and ACT each day.
“This is one of the busiest stretches of road for the region. The NSW Government is securing a brighter future for NSW families by duplicating the Barton Highway to ensure a safer and smoother journey for all road users,” NSW Regional Transport and Roads Minister Sam Farraway said.
The Barton Highway Upgrade Package is being delivered as part of a $200 million investment on the Barton Highway that is jointly funded by the Australian and New South Wales Governments – each contributing $150 million and $50 million respectively.
The significant funding will deliver two projects that will help improve road safety as well as connectivity on this vital transport network between the New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory (ACT).
“We are committed to upgrading this key regional road link to improve safety, particularly for commuters to and from the ACT from the surrounding region.
“These upgrades will also enhance tourism, drive economic growth and create vibrant regional spaces,” Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King said.
The two projects are the Barton Highway Upgrade Package – Stage 1 and the Barton Highway Corridor Upgrade – Stage 2.
Construction on Stage 1 commenced in December 2021 and works on the southern connection at the NSW and ACT border will begin this month. The entire first stage of the Barton Highway upgrade is expected to be completed in early 2023.
“Work is set to steam ahead in the coming months, with motorists and residents set to see significant progress along the upgrade route.
“This will include next section of stabilising gravel base materials to go down, further intersection upgrades, developing the north and south connections to the existing highway as well as the start of placement of the new road surface,” Federal Regional Development, Local Government and Territories Minister and Member for Eden-Monaro Kristy McBain said.
On the other hand, early planning is being carried out on Stage 2 and it will involve Aboriginal cultural consultation and concept design planning for the next stretch of works. Environmental assessment for this stage is due to begin in early 2023.
The second stage of the Barton Highway Upgrade will involve upgrading the highway north from Kaveneys Road in Jeir to south of Gooda Creek Road in Murrumbateman.
“As one of the most used highways in the Canberra region, this project will transform travel for people living in or around Yass, Marrumbateman and Gunning.
“We have seen a huge amount of progress recently with extensive drainage works now complete. It is exciting to see this duplication take shape and I know it will make a huge difference and ensure a better, more efficient connection to the ACT,” NSW Member for Goulburn Wendy Tuckerman said.
Source: Transport for NSW (1, 2); Roads & Infrastructure Australia; Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government