Transport for NSW is spearheading the Mulgoa Road upgrade project, aimed at accommodating the present and future traffic demands and anticipated growth in the Penrith area. It's a comprehensive overhaul that involves a range of improvements to ensure smoother travel experiences for motorists, enhanced safety measures, and improved infrastructure. Let's dive into the details of this transformative project that we found on the Transport for NSW website.
What's changing with the Mulgoa Road upgrade?
To address traffic congestion and bolster traffic flow efficiency, Mulgoa Road will be transformed into a six-lane divided road, with three lanes in each direction and a central median. The upgrade brings a variety of key improvements, including:
- Relocation of complex utilities such as gas, water, communications, sewer, and electricity.
- Converting Factory Road to a left-in access only for enhanced safety.
- Extended and additional turning lanes on Mulgoa Road, facilitating easier access to the M4 Motorway.
- Elimination of the tunnel access to the Penrith Homemaker Centre at Wolseley Street, replaced by dual right-turn lanes on Mulgoa Road.
- Introduction of bus priority lanes at Wolseley Street and Glenbrook Street intersections.
- Establishment of an active transport corridor along the eastern side of Mulgoa Road.
- Integration of an active transport corridor linking Hatchinson Crescent, Huron Place, and Peter Court, providing a shared transit zone for vehicles and cyclists, along with an adjacent footpath.
- Implementation of a left-in only from Glenbrook Street to Peter Court.
- Construction of a noise wall on the eastern side from Glenbrook Street to the M4 Motorway.
- Preparations for future widening to the north and south.
When will the Mulgoa Road upgrade be completed?
The Mulgoa Road upgrade is projected to conclude in 2026, barring any significant weather-related interruptions. From what we read, the timeline should allow for a solid execution of the project, ensuring minimal disruption to commuters during the construction phase.
Construction Phase: What to Expect
In the construction phase there will be several visible changes and activities taking place:
Ground Investigations:
- Small holes may be dug around the road to assess existing ground conditions and validate the underground utilities.
- Workers and subcontractors will use truck-mounted equipment and various machinery.
- Temporary road closures may be necessary, and some work might occur at night to minimise traffic disruptions.
Property Adjustments, including changes to property boundaries:
- Transport and the contractor will liaise with individual property owners to discuss necessary property adjustments and associated timelines.
Property Condition Surveys:
- Property condition surveys will be conducted to document the existing state of properties and assets in close proximity to the project, ensuring any changes during construction are accounted for.
Earthworks and Vegetation Clearing:
- Tree and vegetation clearing where it's absolutely necessary will be carried out along the roadway and areas designated for site facilities.
- The removal of trees will be meticulously planned with input from flora and fauna experts first.
- Measures will be taken to preserve and reuse vegetation such as mulch.
- A landscape plan will be implemented, involving the planting of additional trees along the road corridor.
Traffic Barriers and Signage:
- Installation of traffic barriers and temporary signage will be performed to safeguard workers and delineate work areas, ensuring the smooth flow of traffic around construction sites.
Site Facilities:
- Two locations, namely 111 Mulgoa Road and 95 Blaikie Road, will serve as operational hubs during the project.
- These sites will accommodate office space, material stockpiling, and equipment storage.
- They will be restored to their original conditions upon project completion.
What are the construction hours of the Mulgoa Road upgrade?
The standard work schedule for the Mulgoa Road upgrade involves operating five days a week, with Saturdays included when necessary. The typical work hours are:
- Monday to Friday: 7 am to 6 pm
- Saturday: 8 am to 1 pm
However, due to high traffic volumes on Mulgoa Road, occasional weekend and nighttime work will be required. The community will be kept informed regarding any work outside the standard hours.
Update on other sections of Mulgoa Road
A significant section of Mulgoa Road, from Union Road to Museum Drive, has already been upgraded and is open to traffic since mid-2021. This improvement has notably facilitated access to the Penrith CBD, alleviating congestion at various intersections.
In addition, Transport for NSW is developing a new public car park between the Nepean District Tennis Association tennis court and the rail line, aiming to increase parking capacity in the Penrith city area. With space for 126 cars, this car park is anticipated to open in 2023.
The Mulgoa Road upgrade project represents a significant endeavour by Transport for NSW to enhance traffic flow, safety, and infrastructure capacity in the Penrith. Through a series of improvements and strategic developments, this project, while painful in the short term, should ensure a smoother travel experience, accommodate future growth, and contribute to the overall progress of the area.
