Old South Road open in time for the holiday season, keeping our villages connected
Friday 22 December 2023 will see the re-opening of one of our biggest projects in recent years – the rehabilitation of Old South Road. Critical upgrades to one of our Shire’s main connector roads have enhanced its condition and introduced enhanced safety features. “This vital connector between Mittagong, Bowral and Moss Vale has been a priority project for the community and our team has worked hard to ensure that the road re-opens before Christmas,” say Karin Targa, Director of Service and Project Delivery at Wingecarribee Shire Council.
“We will have the line marking for the last section to be completed in the new year as the seal must be down two weeks before this can take place,” Karin explains.
Council will also be completing an additional 1.3km of re-construction from Aylmerton Street towards the Old Hume Highway in the New Year as well as 500metres of Bong Bong Street connecting into the newly completed works.
Works to bring Old South Road up to modern standards entailed a comprehensive reconstruction, including correction of the driving surface and alignments, widening of shoulder areas and adding audio-tactile line markings and guard rails.
These upgrades mitigate the topographical and environmental challenges of this 9.7km stretch of road between Merrigang Street and Range Road, which is prone to heavy frosts and high traffic volumes. As many as 6,000 motorists travel on this road each day!
The project is funded through a combination of Federal and State Government grants and Wingecarribee Shire Council contributions. Funding has been secured from the Safer Roads Program, Fixing Local Roads Program and Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program. It entailed a complete reconstruction and addressed the road’s deficiencies comprehensively. “This was a massive undertaking in line with our commitment to continuously improving our vast network of roads to meet the needs and expectations of our growing community,” Karin says.
“We are grateful to community members for their patience while we completed these works and hope that everyone will enjoy the smoother, safer drive this holiday season,” she added.
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