The $7 million upgrade to Houston Mitchell Drive should be finalised by June 30.
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That’s the latest prediction on the long-running works that were originally slated to be completed in March.
In a report to the May council meeting, it was noted that heavy rainfall in the early part of the year had pushed back expected completion dates for some council works.
This had affected the works on Houston Mitchell Drive, the report stated.
“Rainfall in 2017, to date, has resulted in delays in excess of 30 working days,” the report said. “The expected contractual completion date has consequently been extended to June.”
Challenging site conditions had also hampered the operation, said a council spokesperson.
“Council appreciates the communities patience and for observing speed limits whilst this important project is in its final phase.”
The so-called Ghost Road links Bonny Hills and the Pacific Highway and the major update will complete safety and traffic flow improvements along the vital link road.
Challenging site conditions had also hampered the operation
- Port Macquarie-Hastings Council
The program of works will involve two sections of Houston Mitchell Drive; between Long Point Drive and the Pacific Highway, and a 2.5km stretch west of Forest Parkway.
These two sections will complete the upgrade to the entire length of the road, and works will occur concurrently to allow for completion in the most timely, efficient and cost effective manner possible
The overall aim of these works is to:
- Improve safety and better flow of traffic for vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists;
- Provide a quality road pavement for the speed environment, and,
- Improved road-side drainage that is more efficient.
But the delayed completion date has concerned some angst within the community.
Lake Cathie’s John Atkins said people were ‘just sick of waiting for the works to be completed’.
“I travel that stretch of the road every day of the week to go to work,” he said. “There are still two stop/go signs in operation.”