Albion Park Rail bypass design and build contract gets green light

Member for Kiama Gareth Ward MP has today announced the successful contractor who will design and deliver the largest-ever single investment into the Princes Highway and the largest infrastructure project in the history of our region.

The $630 million Albion Park Rail bypass project has been awarded to Fulton Hogan.

“One of the reasons I stood for Parliament was to fix the Princes Highway,” Mr Ward said.

“So many said, I’d never deliver the Gerringong upgrade. We did. They said they’d never be alive to see the Berry bypass. We delivered. Our community can trust that when I say I’ll do something – I get it done.

“This is a historic day for the Illawarra and South Coast communities, as it means it’s full steam ahead for the 9.8 kilometer bypass project.

“Motorists who use the bypass between Yallah and Oak Flats will be able to avoid up to 16 intersections and the only sets of traffic lights between Bomaderry and Heathcote.

“The award of this contract to Fulton Hogan to design and deliver the bypass is a significant milestone, as it means the project is on track with the timeline I announced at the last State Election.

“Fulton Hogan will now work on the detailed design and I look forward to working with them – as I have on previous projects in our region.

“Work to reconfigure the Croome Regional Sporting Complex as part of early work for the bypass project is progressing well and I am pleased and proud with the progress that local company Clearly Bros is making.

“I am also pleased to confirm that Fulton Hogan will be required to engage apprentices and trainees as part of this project. Not only is our NSW Government slashing fees for apprenticeships, we’re providing major job opportunities on infrastructure projects like the Albion Park Rail bypass.

“My sincere thanks to our local community for its ongoing support and patience and I’ll continue to keep you informed as the program progresses.

“One of the reasons I stood for Parliament was to fix the Princes Highway. When the Albion Park Rail bypass is complete, I would have secured the the duplication of the Princes Highway throughout my entire electorate.

“I am humbled and honored by the faith and trust my electorate has placed in me over the last seven years to deliver the real change they asked for and make a difference in the lives of locals,” Mr Ward concluded.