The Review of Environmental Factors (REF) outlines construction methods designed to minimize environmental impact, ensuring sustainable practices are embedded in the project’s development. The REF serves as a vital guide for balancing infrastructure needs with environmental responsibility. Community feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with 80% of residents supporting the preferred design, which includes replacing the Wyee Road and Freemans Drive roundabout with traffic lights, adding a shared path between Ourimbah Street and Gimberts Road, and installing two new bus stops at Dora Street.
The project is funded by a combined investment of A$56 million from the Australian Government and A$20 million from the NSW Government. The upgrade aims to improve connectivity from the M1 Pacific Motorway to Morisset and the southern Lake Macquarie Local Government Area, addressing traffic congestion driven by regional growth.
NSW Minister for Roads and Regional Transport, Jenny Aitchison, highlighted the project’s significance: “We are building better communities for NSW [by] ensuring we have the roads infrastructure we need to improve people’s daily lives.” She further noted: “I’d like to acknowledge the advocacy Dan Repacholi MP [Member of Parliament] and Greg Piper MP for their advocacy in ensuring this community has the infrastructure it needs and deserves.” The initiative addresses longstanding infrastructure needs to support growing local communities.
The Mandalong Road upgrade is expected to enhance traffic flow, improve safety, and provide better access for pedestrians and cyclists. By integrating community input and sustainable practices, the project aligns with broader efforts to modernize transportation networks in New South Wales. The detailed design phase will refine plans to ensure the project meets both community and environmental standards, paving the way for efficient construction and lasting regional benefits.
In a related development, the NSW Government recently awarded Abergeldie Complex Infrastructure, a local contractor, a A$100 million contract for the Pitt Town bypass, reflecting ongoing investment in the state’s infrastructure.
