Transport for NSW has identified the preferred route for the $500 million New Richmond Bridge and Traffic Improvements project, following feedback from the community.
Jointly funded by the Federal and New South Wales governments on an 80:20 basis, the project will deliver a new bridge over the Hawkesbury River between Richmond and North Richmond, along with other traffic improvements.
“The bridge between Richmond and North Richmond provides a vital crossing of the Hawkesbury River and currently carries an average of 31,000 vehicles per day,” said Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King.
“A new bridge will double traffic capacity across the Hawkesbury River, reduce travel times and cater for future growth in this historic and growing part of Western Sydney.”
The preferred option will have a one-in-20-year flood resilience level and will be built next to the existing bridge.
This option was recommended as it reduces property acquisition, noise and visual impacts, and greatly improves flood resilience.
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New South Wales Minister for Metropolitan Roads Natalie Ward said the option was identified as a result of strong community feedback and support.
“We want to give the community the assurance that if the two flood events this year were to occur again, they would not be cut off from the services they need,” she said.
“We also estimate the new two-lane bridge and approaches will save motorists up to 12 minutes travel time through this area.”
The preferred option is also expected to support business in the North Richmond town centre by maintaining passing trade.
It will have no direct impact on heritage-listed properties, and reduced impacts on endangered ecological communities.
The option includes upgrades to traffic signals in North Richmond to improve long-term traffic flow, as well as a new signalised pedestrian crossing to improve connectivity across Bells Line or Road.
The project will upgrade four intersections, improve existing roads, construct a new road, as well as provide a dedicated active transport path between Richmond and North Richmond that will encourage bike use and exercise.
For more information, visit: www.roads-waterways.transport.nsw.gov.au