After years of construction work, Central Coast motorists will be able to save 15 minutes in travel time and bypass 21 sets of traffic lights on Pennant Hills Road, with the NorthConnex twin tunnels opening to traffic in the early hours of Saturday morning.
Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast and Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch said the $3 billion project will bust congestion for motorists and boost productivity for truckies.
“History will be made on Saturday morning when the first vehicles travel through the twin tunnels and bypass Pennant Hills Road,” Mr Crouch said.
“This is one of the most significant and eagerly anticipated road projects ever delivered in Australia, and I know our Central Coast community is very excited to try out the new route.
“NorthConnex also provides the ‘missing link’ in the National Highway network, allowing motorists to travel from Newcastle to Melbourne without encountering a single set of traffic lights.”
Mr Crouch said the project has been a major driver of employment, creating around 8,700 jobs for NSW.
“I’m incredibly proud of the 1,500 local workers and 50 local businesses who have contributed to this project and turned NorthConnex from a dream into a reality,” Mr Crouch said.
“NorthConnex also features world’s best practice in safety technology, including 24/7 in-tunnel monitoring.
“At eight minutes for a one-way trip, NorthConnex is longer than other motorway tunnels in Sydney, which is why Australian-first lighting displays have been installed to keep drivers engaged and focused.
“These include stunning starscapes, trees and native bird installations along the nine-kilometre route.
“The tunnels have also been built to last for generations with space for a third lane in the future.”
Transurban CEO Scott Charlton said NorthConnex will leave a positive lasting legacy for the local community.
“Thank you and congratulations to everyone who’s been involved in and committed to delivering this transformative and bold project to the highest standard,” Mr Charlton said.
NorthConnex is a $3 billion project including funding of $577.3 million from the NSW Government, $412.3 million from the Australian Government and $2 billion from Transurban and its private sector partners.
Toll Relief will continue to apply, with drivers who spend an average of $25 a week over a year entitled to free registration. Drivers who spend an average of $15 a week over a year are entitled to half price registration.
For more information, go to: www.northconnex.com.au.
