Preparatory works have begun on a package of six roads earmarked for upgrades thanks to a $40 million commitment from the Australian Government.

The funding will deliver upgrades to Forest Road, Callala Beach Road, Callala Bay Road, Culburra Road, Worrigee Rd/Greenwell Point Rd Intersection, and Callala Bay Rd/Forest Rd Intersection just outside of Nowra.

Federal Member for Gilmore, Fiona Phillips said the Albanese Government was committed to addressing longstanding problems with Shoalhaven roads caused by extreme weather events, and also future-proofing the local road network for expected population growth in the region.

“I'm pleased to have delivered this Federal Local Roads package and have supported council every step of the way to ensure works can get underway as soon as possible,” Mrs Phillips said.

"Better roads improve traffic flow, reduce congestion and travel times, making the region more liveable.

“I will continue advocating for funding to keep Shoalhaven roads safe."

Mayor Patricia White said the project would be delivered over three years, with the first of the funds allocated to the initial investigations for the six sites.

“The Shoalhaven region has experienced 15 natural disasters in five years and this has had a major impact on our road network and our resources,” Cr White said.

“This funding will allow us to upgrade sections of these important local roads and make them safer for locals and the many visitors to our region, and also make these sections of road more resilient to future weather events.

“We’re excited to make a start on the project and begin the process of investigations and assessments to determine the best treatment measures for each road.”

Cr White said engineering and infrastructure specialist, SMEC, had been engaged as partner consultant to assist with the delivery of the project.

Over the coming months scoping works such as topographic survey, environmental, flood and heritage studies will be carried out at each site. 

The community is encouraged to subscribe for updates at Council’s project page.

This project is fully funded by the Australian Government through the Infrastructure Investment Program, which is administered by Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts (DITRDCA).

Photo: Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips with Shoalhaven City Council mayor Patricia White at the intersection of Worrigee and Greenwell Point Roads which is set for improvements.