The Cessnock Road upgrade at Testers Hollow in the Hunter Valley region of New South Wales is a step closer to commencing construction as the contract to deliver the $17 million project has been awarded to Daracon Contractors.
“Cessnock Road is an important regional transport route and upgrading it will deliver social and economic benefits.
“This is yet another example of the Australian Government continuing to roll out our $100 billion nationwide infrastructure pipeline, supporting jobs and communities at a time when it’s most needed,” Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said.
Upgrading Cessnock Road will help reduce the impacts of flooding during the wet season as well as improve the road’s connectivity.
“We are pleased to be partnering with the Australian Government to deliver this important upgrade for the Hunter.
“Every time it floods there is a risk that this road is impassable, which creates a lot of frustration and delays, not to mention a safety issue. This upgrade will ensure all road users including freight vehicles can keep moving,” Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole said.
The Cessnock Road upgrade project will include building a new two-lane road that is approximately 1.5 metres higher than the existing road. The new lanes are going to be built beside the existing Cessnock Road to minimise the impacts to traffic during construction.
“Rising the height of Cessnock Road at Testers Hollow will help reduce the frequency, duration and impact of flood events along Cessnock Road.
“This improvement will enhance connectivity between the Maitland area, Hunter expressway and the broader community during heavy rain periods,” Senator for New South Wales Hollie Hughes said.
Motorists that frequently use Cessnock Road will soon see major benefits from this upgrade, including improved safety and better flood immunity as well as reduced flood-related social, economic and maintenance costs.
“Construction is expected to begin later this year and the new length of road is expected to be open to traffic in around two years, weather permitting,” New South Wales Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter Catherine Cusack said.
The Cessnock Road upgrade is jointly funded by the Australian and New South Wales Government, with each contributing $15 million and $2 million respectively.
Source: Transport for NSW (1, 2); Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development