Motorists will soon experience safer and smoother travel on the New England Highway just north of Aberdeen with improvement work now underway near the Segenhoe Road intersection.
Member for Upper Hunter Dave Layzell said the NSW Government-funded $900,000 project involves resurfacing a 400 metre section of the highway and installing audio tactile line marking or ‘rumble strips’ on the centreline and edge lines.
“Rumble strips are a proven way of reducing fatalities and injuries on Australian roads and will increase safety on this important transport and freight route,” Mr Layzell said.
“These small, raised bumps produce a noise and vibration to alert drivers who may be drifting off the road or into the path of oncoming traffic.
“Rumble strips can reduce the likelihood of crashes associated with fatigue and distraction, and are estimated to reduce fatalities and injuries caused when vehicles leave the road by as much as 15 to 25 per cent.”
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway said the work will provide a stronger, safer and smoother road surface.
“This important work will reduce the risk of crashes for the more than 9,500 motorists, including the drivers of 1,800 heavy vehicles, who travel along this section of the highway each day,” Mr Farraway said.
“As an added benefit, the project will also support up to 20 local jobs and help local businesses and communities.”
Work commenced on Sunday 20 February and is being carried out overnight between 7pm to 5am to reduce impact on motorists with completion expected in two weeks, weather permitting.
Lane closures and a 40 km/h speed limit are in place during work hours, which may cause short delays.
Motorists are advised to drive to the conditions, and follow the directions of signs and traffic control.
Transport for NSW thanks road users for their patience during this time.
For the latest traffic updates download the Live Traffic NSW App, visit livetraffic.com or call 132 701.
