The major works contract for the $105 million Mulgoa Road/Castlereagh Road in Penrith, NSW, has been awarded.
McConnell Dowell Constructors is expected to begin works in 2018 to provide better connections to the Penrith CBD and reduce congestion at the intersections of Jane Street and High Street.
Federal Minister for Cities, Urban Infrastructure and Population Alan Tudge said the Federal Government is delivering essential transport infrastructure for Western Sydney to support the expected future growth of the region.
“This project will improve access to public transport in the busy CBD and get people home sooner and safer,” Mr Tudge said.
NSW Minister for Roads, Maritime and Freight Melinda Pavey said the project would also allow for future upgrades of sections of Mulgoa Road and provide safe and effective pedestrian and cycling infrastructure.
These busy intersections are vital to connect road users with the Penrith CBD, Blue Mountains and surrounding suburbs,” Ms Pavey said.
“The Federal and NSW governments are planning for the future of Western Sydney to ensure road users are better connected with their homes as well as key employment and recreation areas across the region.”
NSW Minister for Western Sydney and Member for Penrith Stuart Ayres said the project is another piece of infrastructure that will benefit the local community for years to come.
“Work will include building an additional north and south bound lane both on Mulgoa Road and Castlereagh Road between Union Road and to the south of Museum Drive,” Mr Ayres said.
“The upgrade will also improve the intersections of Mulgoa Road and High Street as well as Castlereagh Road and Jane Street to provide increased capacity and improved bus priority at the High Street intersection, cutting commute times.”
Senator for Western Sydney Marise Payne said the upgrade also included a new rail bridge.
“As Penrith locals know, the section of Castlereagh Road under the rail bridge often floods when there is rainfall, and this upgrade will help address this issue by delivering improved flood immunity, which will be complemented by a new, longer rail bridge,” Ms Payne said.
“In addition, increased public parking will be provided between the Nepean District Tennis Association courts and the railway line, which is good news for commuters.
Construction is expected to be completed by 2020, weather permitting.
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