Mr Albanese said the tender process was the next step in the Rudd and Iemma Governments ongoing commitment to the upgrade of the Pacific Highway at Bulahdelah, which will provide an 8.5km section of four lane divided highway.

“Preliminary work on the upgrade started in November 2007 and included the removal of earth from the adjoining Karuah to Bulahdelah section to use south of the Myall River to construct the road embankments,” Mr Albanese said.

“Key features of this proposal include a four lane divided highway, with limited access points to the east of Bulahdelah and a design speed of 110kmh. This will greatly improve road safety and travel conditions.

“The interchanges that will be provided for either side of the town will allow safe and convenient access for highway motorists,” Mr Albanese said.

Mr Roozendaal said the upgrade will deliver significant benefits for highway motorists.

“The outcome of this project will see a decrease in traffic through Bulahdelah by about 11,000 vehicles per day, down to around 2,000,” Mr Roozendaal said.

“This will take a great deal of pressure off local roads and deliver a safer road environment along this section of the Pacific Highway.

“The construction of the twin bridges over the Myall River will include seven 35 metre bridge spans, with a total length of 245 metres.

“Navigation clearances will also be provided for vessels to improve access.

“Upgrading the Pacific Highway is a key priority for both the Federal and State Government and we remain committed to working in partnership to deliver better results for all motorists who use this vital link.”

Both Ministers urged all interested businesses to visit the RTA website for more information on the tender process.

“Tenders close on 15 October 2008 with a preferred contractor expected to be announced in January 2009,” Mr Albanese said.

 “Following completion of the Bulahdelah Bypass the Pacific Highway will be a continuous four lane divided highway between Hexham and the Port Macquarie turn off.”

The Pacific Highway is part of the National Land Transport Network.

More information on the project can be found at the RTA website www.rta.nsw.gov.au/pacific under Bulahdelah upgrade