After years of community pressure, early design and assessment work for a Picton bypass design is now moving ahead, setting the foundation for a future route that shifts heavy vehicles and commuter traffic out of the town centre.
The Albanese and Minns Governments say the work marks the first significant step forward for the $18.6 million project in years.
MRB Technical Services has been awarded the contract to prepare the concept design and environmental assessment.
Ground investigations began in September and a draft design is expected to go on public exhibition in late 2026.
Bypass would create safer, more reliable access
A completed bypass would connect Thirlmere and Tahmoor to the Hume Motorway via Picton Road, offering an alternative route that avoids Picton’s constrained main streets.
Heavy vehicles, through traffic and commuters would no longer funnel through the heritage town, improving safety and reducing congestion.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure Catherine King says early planning allows the community to visualise how the bypass may work.
She says it can improve safety, support better travel times and improve access during floods and fires.
NSW Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison says getting the Picton bypass design right is essential.
She says the work will help ensure the best outcome for residents and the surrounding environment.
Long standing calls for progress now being met
State Member for Wollondilly Judy Hannan says locals have waited a long time for tangible progress.
She says safer access for families, freight and emergency services depends on a bypass being delivered.
Labor spokesperson for Wollondilly Mark Buttigieg says the project shows the impact of listening to local concerns.
He says the early design phase puts the region on a clearer path toward a safer and more resilient road network.
The concept design and environmental assessment will be made public for feedback once complete.
Further project updates are available on the Transport for NSW website.