Construction has officially begun on the new $180 million Heathcote Road upgrade, improving one of southern Sydney’s busiest roads.
The upgrade, funded by the Minns Labor Government will deliver a safer and more reliable journey for the more than 28,000 motorists who use Heathcote Road each day, by extending the existing westbound overtaking lane between Lucas Heights and Engadine.
The upgrade will deliver an additional 900 metres of overtaking lane between the Heathcote Road Bridge over the Woronora River and New Illawarra Road.
Once complete, the new lane will connect with the existing overtaking lane at Lucas Heights, creating a continuous 2.5-kilometre overtaking section for motorists travelling west.
This will provide motorists with more opportunities to safely overtake slower-moving vehicles on the uphill section west of the Woronora River, helping to reduce driver frustration, improve traffic flow and make journeys more reliable.
Heathcote Road is a critical transport link connecting Liverpool and Heathcote, while providing access between southern Sydney, Wollongong and the South Coast and major motorway corridors including the M5 and M7.
The upgrade forms part of the Minns Labor Government’s commitment to investing in the road infrastructure communities rely on every day, improving safety and ensuring the network can meet growing demand.
Protecting local wildlife is also a priority, with fauna fencing being installed along the project alignment to reduce the risk of vehicle strikes involving koalas and other animals.
Thermal drone surveys are also being used to identify wildlife within the construction area, with work stopped where necessary to ensure animals are protected.
Construction is expected to take around two years to complete.
Early works include installing safety barriers, earthworks, relocating utilities, establishing environmental protection measures and vegetation clearing where required.
Temporary traffic changes will be in place throughout construction, with motorists encouraged to follow signage and allow additional travel time.
Minister for the Illawarra and South Coast, Ryan Park said:
“Heathcote Road is a vital connection for Illawarra residents travelling to and from Sydney, so improving safety and reducing delays will make a real difference.
“I am so proud to be marking this milestone with the Member for Heathcote Maryanne Stuart who has been committed to delivering this upgrade for her local community.
“The Minns Labor Government is investing in the infrastructure our growing communities need, and it's great to see work underway on this important upgrade.”
Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison said:
“Heathcote Road is one of southern Sydney’s most important transport corridors, and with more than 28,000 vehicles using it every day, we know how important it is to make this road safer and more reliable.
“The Minns Labor Government is investing $180 million to improve this busy stretch of road, giving motorists more opportunities to safely overtake slower vehicles and helping traffic flow more freely.
“For too long, motorists have experienced frustration travelling along Heathcote Road, particularly when following slow-moving vehicles uphill.
“This upgrade is about making everyday journeys safer, smoother and more reliable for families, commuters, freight operators and everyone who relies on this road.”
Member for Heathcote Maryanne Stuart said:
“Locals know just how busy Heathcote Road can get, and improving safety and traffic flow along this stretch has been a priority for our community.
“This $180 million investment is a significant win for local motorists who rely on Heathcote Road to get to work, take the kids to school and go about their daily lives.
“By extending the overtaking lane, we're making it easier and safer for drivers to get where they need to go, while reducing some of the frustration that comes with travelling along this busy road.
“Thank you to the Heathcote community for your advocacy over many years for this upgrade. I'm proud to be part of a Minns Labor Government that is listening to our community and delivering the road improvements locals need.”