TENDERS have been invited for the next stage of enabling works on the Woolgoolga to Ballina upgrade along the Pacific Highway.
Member for Cowper Luke Hartsuyker said this is another milestone in delivering one of Australia’s largest regional road infrastructure projects.
“With 60 per cent of the Pacific Highway upgrade completed and all projects between Port Macquarie and Arrawarra now underway or complete, the focus is now on the remaining 155 kilometres between Woolgoolga and Ballina,” Mr Hartsuyker said.
“Significant progress has been made in recent months with the awarding of the construction contracts for Arrawarra to Glenugie. The appointment of hydrological services will continue this progress.”
Member for Page Kevin Hogan said the successful contractor will provide expert independent counsel on all hydrological matters including advice and services on project impacts and flooding outcomes.
“The hydrologist will be a vital resource for residents if they need assistance in understanding flood impacts on the area. They will also review concerns from local authorities, government agencies and stakeholders and negotiate mitigation measures,” Mr Hogan said.
Member for Clarence Chris Gulatpis said this was an important step in order to deliver the full duplication of the highway.
“The hydrology services are part of the Australian and New South Wales governments’ joint commitment of $564.6 million towards planning and preconstruction works on the Woolgoolga to Ballina section, to ensure full duplication can be finished by the end of the decade,” Mr Gulaptis said.
State Member for Ballina Don Page said the project would be a great economic boost for the region.
“This upgrade is expected to employ about 2,500 people directly and provide for another 6,500 indirect jobs in the broader community,” Mr Page said.
Applications for tender must be submitted by 2:30pm, Tuesday 3 February 2015. More information can be found at https://tenders.nsw.gov.au/.
