The Federal Government has announced it will share the cost of rebuilding and future-proofing the Great Western Highway at Victoria Pass with the NSW Government, matching the state’s $100 million contribution.
The funding will also see an additional eastbound climbing lane delivered, which will permanently widen the critical link between the Blue Mountains and Central West.
“By delivering an additional eastbound climbing lane, we are taking the opportunity to improve the road for the long term, giving motorists the opportunity to safely overtake slower-moving vehicles and trucks,” said NSW Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison.
“We are looking beyond the immediate repair and investing in our Central West and Blue Mountains communities for the future.
“This investment will address a long-standing pain point for locals and truckies, while ensuring we can get this vital road safely reopened as soon as possible.
“The Albanese Government’s $100 million contribution means we can go beyond simply rebuilding Victoria Pass. This investment will mean we can future-proof it.
“I am very pleased to be working with our Federal counterparts to make that happen.”
In June, the NSW Government entered an alliance contract with Seymour Whyte to construct a new road deck above the existing Causeway supported by piles anchored to the bedrock below.
State Member for Blue Mountains, Trish Doyle said the commitment from the Federal Government to build a third lane on the new road structure will be incredibly welcome news from the Blue Mountains community.
“Locals and freight operators know better than anyone the difference this additional capacity will make once it is delivered,” said Ms Doyle.
“It’s fantastic to see both levels of government working together to rebuild this critical route, while also ensuring it is safer, more resilient and better equipped to serve the community for years to come.”
