The Bucketts Way has received more than $8.3 million in funding to help MidCoast Council and Port Stephens Council improve this major transport route.
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It was part of an almost $14 million infrastructure funding announcement made on Monday May 8 by Minister for Roads, Maritime and Freight, Melinda Pavey and Member for Upper Hunter, Michael Johnsen.
Funding has come under the NSW Government’s Fixing Country Roads program, which will also give $5.5 million to Dungog Council to replace the Williams River bridge in Clarence Town.
The Bucketts Way funding will allow the councils to identify and complete key upgrades along the route for better connection with surrounding road networks.
Minister Pavey said it’s a big win for the surrounding communities because it will increase productivity, drive growth and economically benefit the regions.
“The significant upgrades along Bucketts Way, expected to be completed by 2019, will help regional communities deliver better connections to nearby roads and highways, allowing goods to be transported faster and more efficiently.”
Mr Johnsen said improving regional roads, like the Bucketts Way, leads to stronger local economies, more employment opportunities and ultimately thriving communities.
Dungog Council’s funding will be used to construct a new concrete bridge over Williams River in Clarence Town that will cater for heavier freight vehicles.
Mrs Pavey said it will allow large freight vehicles, like semi-trailers and B-doubles to access the Bucketts Way and the Pacific Highway, making their journey easier and safer.
“The new bridge and road realignment will help regional communities deliver better connections to state-owned roads and highways, allowing goods to be transported faster and more efficiently,” she said.
The Fixing Country Roads program allows the NSW Government to work with councils to identify infrastructure upgrades needed on council managed roads to improve safety and freight productivity.
For more information visit www.freight.transport.nsw.gov.au/strategy/projects/fixing-country-roads
Anne Keen
Anne has been a journalist with the ACM (Australia Community Media) since 2016. She primarily works at the Gloucester Advocate but also contributes to the Manning River Times.
Anne has been a journalist with the ACM (Australia Community Media) since 2016. She primarily works at the Gloucester Advocate but also contributes to the Manning River Times.
