RESIDENTS in Williamtown will soon be enjoying smoother and safer journeys along Cabbage Tree Road with a multimillion dollar safety upgrade about to get underway.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development, Barnaby Joyce, said the Australian and NSW governments are jointly funding this $4 million upgrade through the Road Safety Program to provide a stronger, longer lasting and safer road.

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“Cabbage Tree Road is an important link to the Newcastle Airport and RAAF Base at Williamtown, which is used by about 8,862 vehicles each day including 1,772 heavy vehicles,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

“Improving safety along this 2.6-kilometre section between Nelson Bay Road and Barrie Close is important for locals, business and tourists as there have been eleven crashes between 2013 and 2018.”

Mr Joyce said the project will also help to support local jobs, employing approximately 40 jobs and five contractors for a period of eight weeks.

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway said Transport for NSW has worked with Port Stephens Council to carry out the work.

The work includes widening the road over the full 2.6 kilometres to provide 3.5 metre travel lanes and 1.5 metre sealed shoulders.

“As well as widening and resurfacing the road, crews will be installing a wider painted centreline to improve safety and reduce the likelihood of head-on crashes.

“Work will also be carried out to install new safety barriers and improve drainage, reducing the risks of water over the road,” Mr Farraway said.

Works commenced on 27 April and will be carried out from 7am to 6pm on weekdays and Saturdays, with an approximate completion of eight weeks, weather permitting.

A detour will be in place for westbound motorists from 6am to 6pm weekdays and Saturdays.

Motorists are advised to plan ahead as the detour is expected to add up to eighteen kilometres to journeys, which is about fifteen minutes travel time.

Access will be maintained for residents, local businesses, school buses and emergency services.

By Tara CAMPBELL