Construction update October 2009
Conjola Creek Bridge and approaches (Stage 1) was opened to traffic in September 2009. The demolition of the old bridge was also recently completed.
The realignment of the Princes Highway at Conjola Mountain (Stage 2) is progressing well. Excavation is continuing in the large cuts in the southern and northern ends of the job, with shotcreting and stabilisation works on the batters. Traffic was switched onto a temporary pavement on the new alignment in the northern and southern sections in late August to allow construction activities to continue, including works for a large 20m high reinforced earth wall on the western side of the highway.
Construction of the bridge (viaduct) is progressing as planned, with all 32 concrete girders successfully placed into position. Construction of the concrete deck will now occur throughout October and November 2009.
The RTA would like to thank all motorists, residents and the community for their patience during construction.
Project overview and history
The Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA) is realigning the Princes Highway at Conjola Mountain. The $58 million project is jointly funded with the NSW Government providing $48 million and the Australian Government $10 million from the Auslink Strategic Regional Program. The Southern Councils Group arranged the Australian Government funding.
Stage 1 of the project involves replacing the Conjola Creek Bridge. Traffic was switched to the new bridge in September 2008.
Stage 2 involves realigning the Princes Highway at Conjola Mountain and is expected to commence in October 2008.
Background
The Prices Highway is the main road link for traffic travelling between Sydney and Wollongong and the South Coast.
Conjola Mountain is located approximately 46 kilometres south of Nowra on the Princes Highway. The section of the highway being upgraded is approximately 3.5 kilometres in length and has a steep and winding descent from the north to a narrow bridge at Conjola Creek.
Project Benefits
Improved safety and travel conditions by improving the highway alignment and replacing the narrow Conjola Creek Bridge and approaches.
Improved access for residents including the provision of two new underpasses.
Improved traffic flow by providing a new northbound overtaking lane between Conjola Creek Bridge and Bendalong Road (Red Head Road).
Replacement of Conjola Creek Bridge
This work involves construction of a new Conjola Creek Bridge and road approaches. The new two-lane, two-way bridge is approximately 15 metres west of the old bridge, It will provide wider shoulders for improved safety and has been designed for a 1 in 100 year flood event.
Construction commenced in January 2008. Work is progressing well with traffic diverted onto the new Conjola Creek Bridge in September 2008 and the project is scheduled for completion in December 2008.
Realignment of Conjola Mountain section
The work involves upgrading the section of the Princes Highway between Bendalong Road and the northern approaches of the new Conjola Creek Bridge. Stage 2 also includes an additional northbound lane to allow for overtaking on the steep section of highway, the provision of a median safety barrier and construction of two underpasses for improved access for local residents.
The contract for Stage 2 was awarded to BMD Constructions in September 2008 and work is expected to commence in October 2008.
Construction details
Construction activities will include:
Clearing of vegetation.
Earthworks including some blasting.
Supply and install pipes and drainage.
Construction of a 120m concrete bridge.
Construction of a 60m underpass and a 25m concrete underpass.
Construction of two reinforced soil walls.
Construction impacts:
Traffic delays.
Reduced speed zone through work site.
Night works for contain activities.
Increased dust and noise.
Increased heavy vehicle activity.
Photo library
To view the photo library of construction activities click here.
What happens next?
For more information
For more information on the proposal and the studies please phone the project manager, Adrian Rouse on 4221 2479 or email Adrian_Rouse@rta.nsw.gov.au.
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