The New South Wales Government has commenced major work to reconstruct the Hume Highway at Marulan, with the project expected to significantly benefit freight and logistics operators.
The upgrade involves rebuilding a two-kilometre section of road and replacing drainage systems to ensure improved safety and reliability for heavy vehicle traffic. The $35 million project, funded under the NSW Government’s $350 million Repair and Resilience program, aims to strengthen the critical transport route, which currently supports more than 19,000 vehicles daily, including approximately 6,000 heavy freight vehicles.
“The Hume Highway is the second largest freight route in Australia, linking Sydney and Melbourne and used by more than 37,000 vehicles daily,” said Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Jenny Aitchison.
“The Marulan bypass was built in 1986 as part of the Hume Highway upgrade program and since that time the large growth in traffic volumes have put extra pressure on the existing road surface.
“We understand motorists are frustrated by the quality of this section of road and that’s why we have invested $35 million in rebuilding and improvement work.
“We thank the community for its ongoing patience while this essential repair work is carried out.”
Minister for Roads John Graham highlighted the importance of the highway as a vital transport link connecting Sydney and Melbourne. The rebuild will reduce the likelihood of road deterioration and closures caused by severe weather, addressing concerns raised by the freight and logistics industry regarding supply chain disruptions.
Construction is expected to be completed by early 2025, with Transport for NSW implementing traffic management plans to minimise disruptions to freight and commuter traffic during the works period.