Safety improvements to a 2km section of the Thunderbolts Way will start soon.
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The section at Mares Run, about 55km north of Gloucester, extends from Carsons lookout to the top of Giro Mountain, with work to begin on November 30.
Along with upgrading the existing road pavement to finish with an asphalt overlay, the scope of works includes rehabilitation of road shoulders, drainage improvements, upgrading guardrail and line-marking.
MidCoast Council's operations manager (north) Daniel Park said Thunderbolts Way is an important regional road that links Walcha and Gloucester through to Newcastle and Sydney.
"Improving road safety for the local motorists, primary producers, haulage companies, tourists and bike riders who use Thunderbolts Way is an ongoing focus, and this project is one of many that will roll out over comings years," Mr Park said.
While crews will be onsite between 7am and 4pm Monday to Friday, reduced speed limits will be in place at all times (including outside work hours) for the duration of the works. Lane closures will be required at times, and traffic control will be in place.
"These projects also give us an opportunity to look to the future, with works designed to provide durability," Mr Park said.
"We use materials and techniques that not only extend the life of the road, but reduce ongoing maintenance costs."
Member for Upper Hunter Michael Johnsen said the project was being delivered by the NSW Government's Fixing Country Roads program, which aims to unlock the economic potential of regional NSW.
"This will deliver important benefits for all regional road users - from passengers to producers and from heavy truck drivers to the local school bus," Mr Johnsen said.
"Projects like this are important in supporting the regional freight task in NSW, which is expected to increase by 12 percent to 286 million tonnes by 2036."
Motorists are asked to be alert to changed traffic conditions, observe all signage and directions from road crews and to travel with caution in the area. Delays can be expected during the day when lane closures are in place.
The project is part of the Thunderbolts Way Corridor Strategy and is expected to be completed by early February 2021.