Three lanes each way and an 80 km/h speed limit.
It may not seem like a lot, but for residents of the Hunter Valley who have negotiated years of traffic disruptions at the Hexham bottleneck, those two upgrades mean less time spent in the car or truck every day.
The Hexham Straight Widening is a part of one of the largest transport infrastructure commitments in the region’s history. Together with the M1 to Raymond Terrace extension, more than $2.2 billion has been spent on the project.
The completed project includes new twin bridges over Ironbark Creek to support the widened roadway, upgraded and modernised traffic lights at the intersection of the bypass and Old Maitland Road, a new U-turn facility, and improved pedestrian crossings and bus stops in front of St Joseph’s Calvary Aged Care.
It is expected to deliver more reliable travel times for freight and improve safety for all road users, including cyclists and pedestrians.
Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King said on Friday that she was thrilled to announce the completion of the project.
“This project is delivering real benefits for people in the Hunter including safer journeys and improved travel times.”
For NSW Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison the pain of sitting in traffic in Hexham is personal.
“I know firsthand how disruptive and exhausting those delays have been for commuters, families and freight operators. Today, that changes,” Aitchison said.
“With three lanes now open in each direction and the speed limit increased to 80km/h, motorists will see real improvements in travel times and reliability along this critical corridor.
“This is a fantastic outcome for our region and a genuine game-changer for the Hunter. It will improve travel times, strengthen freight productivity and play a major role in keeping our region moving as it continues to grow.”
Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon said more than 50,000 motorists a day rolled through Hexham Straight, and now they could expect a safer, smoother and more efficient journey.