Early figures show that the new Hunter Expressway has delivered what state and federal politicians promised in the years leading up to its opening in March – relief for Maitland motorists.
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Roads and Maritime Services figures released this week show that about 25,000 vehicles are now using the expressway each weekday and as many as 20,000 on Saturdays and Sundays.
That’s great news for the city’s motorists who have struggled with morning and afternoon peak-hour traffic congestion along the New England Highway for the best part of a decade.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Warren Truss agrees the figures are encouraging.
Some motorists have already reported faster and easier travel across the city and those travelling out of town say they now have more, and better, options to access the M1.
While Maitland has already enjoyed the early benefits of the expressway it will be interesting to see if it achieves its other goal – to speed up long-term development in the region.
The townships of Greta and Branxton have boomed in recent times and the potential for future growth now appears endless.
Another major factor in better travelling times on the New England Highway is the major improvements to the Maitland Hospital and Maitland railway station roundabouts, which are making life a bit more bearable for motorists.
Yes, Maitland certainly is the hub of the Hunter.
Thank you to the state and federal governments for chipping in $1.5 billion for this magnificent project.
