Transport for NSW has issued a reminder to all motorists using the roads around the holiday period to be mindful of expected increased traffic volumes as holiday-goers head around the state.
NSW Police will be out in force from Friday December 20th to Wednesday January 1st, with the state also partnering with the NHVR as part of ‘Operation Omega’.
Historical data shows the busiest time on roads leaving Sydney start from lunchtime on Friday, December 20th, as people leave work early and start leaving Sydney for regional NSW.
The heaviest outbound traffic is forecast for the M1 Pacific Motorway and Pacific Highway heading North, the Great Western Highway heading west and the Princes Highway heading south.
Transport for NSW will be monitoring traffic at known regional pinch points including Coffs Harbour, Tugun and Hexham on the Pacific Highway, Mt Victoria on the Great Western Highway, and Nowra, Jervis Bay, Milton and Ulladulla on the Princes Highway.
Multiple major regional road projects will be shutting down over the holiday break, but many projects will still have reduced speed limits in place.
Transport for NSW Executive Director Operations Management Craig Moran says the added presence is to ensure journeys on the state’s roads run smoothly.
“This is always one of the busiest periods on our road network with people moving right across the state to visit family and friends for Christmas or to enjoy a summer break,” Moran says.
“We’ll have a dedicated staff working around the clock to make that journey as smooth as possible.”
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison has called on all road users to make good decisions when hitting the roads in the coming weeks.
“This weekend we’re expecting thousands of motorists to hit the road and head to the regions to make the most of the Christmas holidays,” she says.
“Tragically, as of midnight on December 17th 2024, 330 people have lost their lives on NSW roads so far this year, which is one less than the same time last year.
“I’m asking everyone to please slow down and take extra care on our roads to make sure this is a merry Christmas.
“Stick to the speed limit, never drive if you’re affected by drugs or alcohol, make sure you’re well rested before hitting the road, always wear your seatbelt, wear a helmet if you’re riding a motorcycle and don’t use your phone illegally.”
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