Work is starting this week on the first of three new overtaking lanes and safety upgrades on the Mitchell Highway, as part of a $32 million investment between Dubbo and Narromine.
Nationals Member for Dubbo Dugald Saunders said the new overtaking lanes were part of the NSW Government’s $18 million commitment to fund the upgrade along a 36-kilometre section of highway, with an additional $14 million to be spent on further safety improvement work.
“The first overtaking lane is being built at Lagoon Creek, about 17 kilometres west of Dubbo,” Mr Saunders said.
“These new overtaking lanes will be essential for creating safer and more efficient travel for the local community and passing freight, with a large number of residents commuting to work daily between Narromine and Dubbo.
“The new overtaking lane will be about 1.5 kilometres long, with the westbound lane widened to provide a new 3.5-metre lane for motorists to pass slower traffic, as well as a 2-metre shoulder and a 0.5-metre verge.
“Investigation work – including survey, heritage and utility inspection – has already been carried out. Clearing and drainage installation is now underway before work begins on actually building the lane.”
Nationals Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway said two additional overtaking lanes will also be delivered at Mylangra and Tantitha.
“Planning is underway for these two lanes, along with a raft of other safety improvement work to be delivered at the same time, including widening 11 kilometres of highway, installing rumble strips and safety barriers, and improving drainage and property accesses,” Mr Farraway said.
“Packaging these projects along the Mitchell Highway will make the development and delivery more efficient and cost effective.
“Providing more opportunities for motorists wishing to overtake along the highway is a win for all road users and that’s what this project will ultimately deliver.”
Narromine Mayor Craig Davies said he was delighted to see work start.
“It’s been one of the most talked about projects for this Narromine area, and I know every single person who uses the highway will be excited to see things getting underway,” Mr Davies said.
For more information on this project, visit nswroads.work/d2n
