Over the next six months a large drilling rig will be collecting soil samples and testing groundwater in the Blue Mountains.
The findings will inform early works for the Katoomba to Lithgow Great Western Highway upgrade and help to plan for tunnelling.
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole said the hydrogeological testing was a critical step forward to inform environmental assessments and assist with the design of tunnel routes and building methods.
“It will be difficult to miss the high visibility vest wearing team accompanying the rig as they start work this week in Blackheath and make their way across the mountain range to
conclude at Little Hartley in August,” Toole said.
“These locations have been chosen to help with developing a base line understanding of geology and below surface water flow across the proposed route, so that we can ensure we deliver an upgrade that enhances the Blue Mountains and preserves its unique and pristine beauty.”
The rig will spend around three weeks doing investigation work in the following locations:
- Sutton Park, Blackheath
- Blackheath Gardens, Blackheath
- Heavy Vehicle Safety Station, Mt Boyce
- The Explorers Gateway, Mount Victoria
- Victoria Falls Road, Mount Victoria
- Montgomery Street, Mount Victoria
- Matlock Street, Mount Victoria
- Base of Mount Victoria Pass, Little Hartley.
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