Crucial roadworks on the Mid-Western Highway will help improve tourism in the area, making travelling around the region safer, says Federal Member for Calare Andrew Gee.
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The work will kick off thanks to $4.5 million in Australian and New South Wales Government funding through the Safer Roads Program.
The Minister for Decentralisation and Regional Education, Mr Gee said the Safer Roads Program is making a big difference in country communities, creating new jobs and improving road safety.
"It has been a challenging year for the Central West, which is why the Australian Government is continuing to work hard with the state to deliver vital community infrastructure projects," Mr Gee said.
"It's fantastic to see that the Mid Western Highway, south of Blayney and the Mid Western Highway at Bathampton, between Blayney and Bathurst, will receive a hefty $4.5 million in funding under the Safer Roads Program."
NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads and State Member for Bathurst Paul Toole said projects to be rolled out under this program were targeted at sustainable and long-term reductions in road trauma, to assist NSW to move closer to zero fatalities.
"Projects like these can mean the difference between someone getting home or not - and collectively make NSW roads safer for all of us," Mr Toole said.
"We know this is particularly vital on our regional and rural roads, with high-level trauma on country roads accounting for two-thirds of all road deaths in the state.
"These works will save lives and bolster the resilience of the state's rural and regional road networks, meaning smoother, safer trips to school, work or even the shops - which will make a real difference for those in the bush who depend on them for their day-to-day lives."
The Mid Western Highway, just south of Blayney, will see $1.7 million in enhancements, which will include: flexible safety barriers, clearzone markings, improved shoulders and a series of other safety upgrades.
There are also $2.8 million in works planned for the Mid Western Highway at Evans Plains and at the Bathampton Road intersection, including: flexible safety barriers, clearzone markings, improved shoulders, curve alignment markers and a series of other safety upgrades.
Mr Gee said with the Central West's growing population and economy, it is important roads across the region remain safe and fit for purpose - now and into the future.
Safer Roads Program
Mid Western Highway: $1,700,000 (Mid Western Highway, 4.5km - 6.5km south of Blayney).
- Provide wide centreline treatment, widen shoulders, clearzone works.
Mid Western Highway: $2,800,000 (HW6 Bathampton)
- Widening and Safety Barrier, between 2.2 and 13km west of Evan Plains Road.
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