NSW budget funds $79M for two major black spot improvements

Two of NSW’s crash black spots have been allocated $79M in the state’s 2020-21 budget.

Heathcote Road will receive $35 million for duplication and Picton Road will get $44 million of planning money for its duplication.

The announcement of funding for Heathcote Road is in addition to the state and federal funding already put aside for the duplication between Infantry Parade and The Avenue, and $73 million for Heathcote Road Bridge.

Early work for the duplication between Holsworthy and Voyager Point is due to start in early 2021. Major works will follow in September 2021 and run through until late 2024.

The additional funding for the Picton Road duplication in the Wollongong and Wollondilly areas will be delivered over the next four years.

Upgrading Picton Road was identified as key to meeting the demand for additional freight and improved safety in the NSW Freight and Ports Plan for 2018-2023.

The Picton Road strategic business case, including preferred upgrades, is due to be completed in the second half of 2021 with concept and design work to follow.

Minister for Transport and Roads Andrew Constance said duplicating Heathcote Road is not an easy task and will take time but will be well worth it.

“Duplicating Heathcote Road will significantly improve safety for the 36,000 drivers who use the road every day,” Constance said.

“We need to get this road right to accommodate future growth from the Illawarra to Western Sydney, and to ensure we have the right infrastructure in place for generations to come.”

He said last year alone there were 13 crashes with three people killed on Heathcote Road – these numbers are unacceptable, and this government is committed to fixing road safety along this corridor as soon as possible.