Source : PortMac.News | Citizen :
Source : PortMac.News | Citizen | News Story:
News Story Summary:
Leslie Williams said more than 450 submissions had been received in response to consultation carried out earlier this year to improve a 9.5 kilometre section of the highway from Billabong Drive to Hastings River Drive in Port Macquarie.
“The NSW Government is investing $850,000 to progress the designs for these improvements and develop a longer term transport strategy in conjunction with Port Macquarie-Hastings Council,” Mrs Williams said.
“More than 23,500 vehicles use this section of the Oxley Highway every day, including about 1500 heavy vehicles and the local insights we’ve received during the consultation process have been invaluable.
“Port Macquarie is a growing community and this route provides an essential link between the Pacific Highway and the CBD so it’s important we plan properly to meet the community’s needs for now and into the future.”
Mrs Williams said Transport for NSW sought feedback on its proposals to increase capacity of the Pacific Highway interchange and options for upgrading the intersections with John Oxley Drive near Philip Charley Drive, at Wrights Road and at Lake Road.
“The community is eager for solutions to increased traffic congestion on the Oxley Highway especially following new housing developments, commercial development and the new Health and Education precinct.
“Three options were presented for the planned upgrades to the Wrights and Lake Roads intersections and the community was largely in favour of building an overpass for the Oxley Highway westbound lane, installing traffic lights on the Oxley Highway eastbound, Wrights Road and at Lake Road.
“Concerns were also raised about pedestrian safety, including the need for additional footpaths and the lack of bicycle paths in the area.
“We’ll continue to work with Council to make sure we deliver the best outcome for the community, for motorists, pedestrians and cyclists to ensure everyone has a safe and smooth experience on and around the Oxley Highway,” Mrs Williams said.
The report detailing submissions and responses for the proposed upgrades to Oxley Highway is now available to view online at nswroads.work/oxleyhighway.
The NSW Government is currently funding planning investigations for the Oxley Highway, with funding and timing for major work yet to be confirmed.