Final stage starts on major safety upgrade of the Kamilaroi Highway
Work on the final stage of a $26.4 million upgrade of a major NSW highway is starting this week, improving safety along a vital link in the State’s North West.
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway said the 17 kilometre upgrade of the Kamilaroi Highway from Baan Baa to Turrawan was funded under the NSW Government’s Saving Lives on Country Roads program.
“One life lost on our roads is one too many. These people are more than just another statistic, they are someone’s family member, a friend, or a loved one,” Mr Farraway said.
“That’s why the NSW Government is building the infrastructure that matters to make daily life easier for people travelling in the regions and keep them safe.
“We’ve had our fair share of challenges delivering this project with the recent wet weather, but I commend the project team for keeping this on track and delivering this much needed upgrade.”
Key features of the Baan Baa to Turrawan upgrade include dual, 1.8 kilometre overtaking lanes to reduce the likelihood of motorists taking risks to overtake slower vehicles.
A new flexible centre barrier and 2.5metre wide sealed shoulders provide vehicles more room to recover, whilst remaining on a sealed surface, as well as rumble strips on the centre and outside lines to reduce the likelihood of head-on and run-off road crashes.
Mr Farraway said sections one and three were completed earlier this year with section two due to be completed early 2023.
“The final stage, section four, is set to start next month at the southern end of the project towards Baan Baa,” Mr Farraway said.
“This section will also include the construction of a pull over bay for heavy vehicles travelling southbound, which was added to the design following feedback from the community.
“This upgrade is part of the Government’s commitment to secure a brighter future for regional NSW.”
For the safety of workers and motorists, single lane closures and a reduced speed limit of 40 km/h will be in place during work hours.
Motorists should plan their trip, allow extra travel time and follow the direction of traffic control and signs, including reduced speed limits.
For the latest traffic updates download the Live Traffic NSW App, visit livetraffic.comor call 132 701.
For more information on the Baan Baa to Turrawan project visit the Transport for NSW website.