Works will begin in late January 2017 on the new eastbound overtaking lane on the Bells Line of Road, a major motorway in New South Wales.
A Roads and Maritime Services spokesperson said the NSW Government was funding a $48 million program of work to improve road safety and traffic efficiency on Bells Line of Road between Lithgow and Kurrajong Heights.
“Bells Line of Road currently acts as a as a local access road, a through route, and a scenic route but due to increased traffic volume can no longer support all three roles,” the spokesperson said.
“Slower heavy vehicles or scenic travellers often cause delays for motorists by travelling below the posted speed.
“To overcome these issues, Roads and Maritime Services will start work to install a 700m eastbound overtaking lane on Bells Line of Road, 220m west of Mount Tootie Road from 30 January.
“The new eastbound overtaking lane will improve traffic flow, reduce traffic delays and improve road safety for all road users.
“Community feedback was sought on three overtaking lane sites near Bilpin in May 2015 with this site identified to proceed.
“The location of the overtaking lane was chosen in conjunction with the other overtaking lanes proposed along Bells Line of Road and has been selected with consideration for the topography and impacts on property and vegetation.
The Roads and Maritime Services spokesperson said the location of overtaking lanes also took into account safe sight lines to existing speed signage on either side of Bilpin, so motorists were given enough warning when approaching the town.
“Other options such as reversing the direction of the overtaking lanes were explored but were found not to be viable.
“Work will be carried out from 7am to 6pm on weekdays and from 8am to 1pm on Saturdays between Monday 30 January and Friday 31 March, weather permitting.”
As part of this work a site compound will be established on Bells Line of Road, about 180m west of Mount Tootie Road. The compound will be used for the duration of the project until late 2017 with truck movements in and out of the property.
Roads and Maritime has so far opened five overtaking lanes between Richmond and Mount Tomah as part of this project with some finalisation work ongoing in two areas.
