POPULAR WORDS

November 17, 2009

The way has been cleared for construction of the Kempsey Bypass to begin after Leighton Contractors were assigned to the project in conjunction with the News South Wales Road Traffic Association (RTA).

According to the Federal Minister for Infrastructure Anthony Albanese, the $618 million project will get under way early next year.

“The 14.5km Kempsey Bypass is a key part of the Rudd Labor Government's $3.1 billion commitment to upgrading the Pacific Highway. In fact, no other road in the country is having more money spent on it,” Albanese says.

With work on the bypass now ready to begin, the Federal and NSW Governments have committed $57.6 million to the detailed planning for a further upgrade to the Pacific Highway between Frederickton and Eungai.

This latest project will span more than 26km and feature upgraded dual carriageway to the west of the highway, a flood free route and an interchange near the northern end providing access to the current highway which will be used as a local road after construction is complete.

“By doing this work now we will be in a position to begin major construction activities following completion of the Bypass,” Albanese says.

“Importantly, this work will identify potential engineering challenges as well as calculate accurate costings and determine a reliable construction timetable.

“All governments agree on the need to complete the duplication of the Pacific Highway. Today’s announcement underscores our determination to get the job done as quickly as possible."