Reduced speed zone and safety work for Snowy Mountains Highway and Batlow Road
10 March 2021
The speed limit will be reduced and new signs and rumble strips will be installed to improve safety, at the intersection of Snowy Mountains Highway and Batlow Road near Tumut.
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole said these important safety upgrades form part of the NSW Government’s $640 million Towards Zero – Saving Lives on Country Roads initiative.
“The community raised concerns about the speed limit around this intersection last year and we listened. The changes we’re making will slow vehicles down as they approach the intersection, significantly reducing the likelihood and severity of crashes at this location and helping ensure everyone makes it home safely to their families at the end of the day,” Mr Toole said.
“We know small projects like these can make a big difference, supporting our vision for a safer, stronger regional road network.”
A speed limit review recommended extending the existing 80 km/h speed zone on the Snowy Mountains Highway, for about three kilometres from 450 metres south of Sturt Close, to 730 metres west of Batlow Road.
The speed limit will also be lowered on Batlow Road to 80km/h from the intersection of the Snowy Mountains Highway for a distance of 1.6 kilometres, after a number of factors were assessed including crash history and traffic volumes.
Member for Wagga Wagga Dr Joe McGirr said the new speed limit will provide a safer road environment for motorists.
“As part of the safety upgrade, larger give way signs, rumble strips, upgraded line marking and a permanent electronic vehicle-activated sign will also be installed,” Dr McGirr said.
“I understand there will be members of the community concerned about the speed reduction, however, safety has to be our number one concern.
“Two-thirds of road deaths are on regional roads and speed is often a factor.
I am conscious of the need to save rural lives.”
The new speed limits and safety upgrades are being installed until Monday 15 March, weather permitting.
Road users are advised to drive to the conditions, and follow the directions of signs and traffic control.
Members of the community can sign up at the Safer Roads NSW website to receive updates about changes to permanent speed limits in their nominated area and to have a say on speed limits. For more information, visit www.saferroadsnsw.com.au.