The long-awaited Fowlers Road link will have four lanes of traffic and two huge bridges according to new council plans, providing West Dapto residents with much-needed access to Dapto and the M1 motorway.
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Wollongong City Council’s concept design for the multi-million dollar road goes on exhibition on Tuesday.
Plans show the mammoth project will involve construction of a four lane road, a shared path and two large bridges – crossing Mullet Creek, the rail line and the floodplain – from Fowlers Road to Fairwater Drive.
The link will be about 1.3km long and provide a flood reliable access route from West Dapto to Dapto town centre and the expressway, taking pressure off overburdened Bong Bong Road.
The design includes a 3.5 metre wide shared path and traffic lights at either end of the road to make it safer for cyclists and pedestrians.
The council says the speed limit will be 60km/h.
According to traffic modelling, about 9000 cars will use the road each day, which is similar to the number using Byamee Street.
According to the council, construction is expected to start next year and will take about four years.
The council has not revealed any final costs, saying it will have a better idea about how much is needed once community feedback has been considered.
However, in March this year, Lord Mayor Gordon Bradbery said costs had blown out to about $90 million - more than double the initial estimate - which leaves a massive shortfall in available funds.
The project received $600,000 from NSW Planning to fund the design phase, and a $22.5 million portion of the Port Kembla lease fund. It will also be funded by developer contributions and a $15 million low interest infrastructure loan from the NSW Government.
Residents are being asked to provide feedback on design and construction as well as how the council can reduce any potential effects on the surrounding community.
The council also wants input on what plants should be used, what kind of “entrance statement” people would like to see as they enter the new road from the Princes Highway and how public art can be incorporated.
An information session will be held at Horsley Community Centre on October 15, and council staff will also host a pop-up information booth at Dapto Mall on October 17.
Feedback can be submitted online until November 2.
