Upper Hunter MP Michael Johnsen said the state government had allocated $109m with an additional $24m from the federal government for a package of upgrades on the Golden Highway.

“This work is part of a four-year package of upgrades being delivered between the Upper Hunter and Dubbo, to improve safety, traffic efficiency, network reliability and freight access,” he said.

“It will involve road widening along two 500m sections of the highway to provide two-metre wide road shoulders.

“The project includes drainage improvements and work to provide five-metre wide clear zones on each side of the road, which improves safety for motorists by removing roadside hazards.”

Work is scheduled to start on Monday, March 20, and will be carried out during the week between 7am and 6pm and on Saturdays between 8am and 1pm.

The project is expected to be completed by the end of May, weather permitting.

During work hours, lane closures and a reduced 40 km/h speed limit will be in place.

Outside working hours both lanes will be open, however a reduced 60km/h speed limit will remain in place to ensure the safety of road users.

The RMS thanks motorists for their patience while this work is carried out.

For the latest information, visit www.livetraffic.com, download Live Traffic App or call the Transport Management Centre on 132 701.