A $35 million upgrade to a 1.8-kilometre stretch of road is expected to save drivers up to four minutes of travel time – if they use the road during peak times.
But construction won’t start until 2025 and it’s expected to take about 18 months to complete.
The Hillsborough Road upgrade will see works completed from the Newcastle Inner City Bypass roundabout to the existing duplication west of Crockett Street.
Stage one involves upgrading the Crockett Street intersection, which will include the installation of traffic lights and duplication of 700 metres of road at this location.
“Once the upgrade is complete, it’s expected road users will save up to four minutes in travel time during the morning and afternoon peaks,” said Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison.
Approximately 36,000 motorists use Hillsborough Road daily and the upgrades are expected to ease congestion.
“This is the first step towards making life better for Hunter motorists,” said Minister for Hunter Yasmin Catley. “These are major Hunter communities that deserve the best infrastructure.”
Timing for construction of the remaining stages is subject to project approvals and funding.
For a measly 4 minutes, what a joke, 35 million could be used for child support, health,education ect….