THE long-awaited widening of the Hexham Straight is complete, clearing a bottleneck infamous across the Hunter.
Motorists can now travel on three lanes in each direction, along the full six-kilometre stretch.
The speed limit has also been increased to 80 kilometres per hour.
With all lanes now open, teams are carrying out minor finishing work across the project including landscaping and signage.
These finishing works will include upgrades to a reserve along the Hunter River, comprising upgraded parking, seating and information signage that shares the cultural heritage of the area from an Indigenous perspective.
The completed project includes new twin bridges over Ironbark Creek to support the widened roadway, upgraded and modernised traffic lights at the intersection of the bypass and Old Maitland Road, a new U-turn facility, and improved pedestrian crossings and bus stops in front of St Joseph’s Calvary Aged Care.
“I’m thrilled to announce the completion of the long-awaited Hexham Straight Widening project,” said Minister for Transport Catherine King on Friday.
“This project is delivering real benefits for people in the Hunter including safer journeys and improved travel times.”
The M1 to Raymond Terrace extension and Hexham Straight Widening is one of the largest transport infrastructure commitments in the region’s history.
The Federal Government is contributing over $1.79 billion towards the project, with the NSW Government contributing $448 million.
NSW Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison said the upgrade is a “game-changer” for the broader region.
“Like so many people across the Hunter, I’ve sat in traffic at Hexham frustrated at the crawling speed and bottlenecks.
“I know firsthand how disruptive and exhausting those delays have been for commuters, families and freight operators.
“Today, that changes.
“It (the upgrade) will improve travel times, strengthen freight productivity and play a major role in keeping our region moving as it continues to grow.”
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