Safety improvements at the Snowy Mountains Highway intersection with Black Creek Road near Adelong have been completed, marking the end of a $9 million road upgrade project.

The project forms part of $36 million in safety improvements along the Snowy Mountains Highway, jointly funded by the Federal and New South Wales governments through the Road Safety Program.

Works, which began in September last year, included widening a 2.1-kilometre section of highway between Black Creek Road and Back Sandy Gully Road to improve safety and visibility through a steep, winding section of road.

The upgrade included wider turning lanes at the intersection, improved sight distance, two kilometres of safety barriers and audio tactile line markings (rumble strips) to help reduce run-off-road crashes.

The nearby Darlow rest area has also reopened following the completion of works.

Federal Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, Kristy McBain, said the upgrades would improve safety for all road users.

“Completing these upgrades on the Snowy Mountains Highway is about more than just improving a stretch of road, it’s about helping people get home safely to their families,” McBain said.

“We know how devastating road trauma can be for communities, and that’s why investments like this matter. By improving sight lines, widening lanes and installing safety barriers, we’re taking practical steps to reduce risk and protect the lives of everyone who travels this road, whether they’re locals, freight drivers or visitors to the region.”

New South Wales Minister for Roads and Regional Transport, Jenny Aitchison, said the improvements would make journeys safer for local communities, freight operators and visitors.

“Better visibility, wider roads, safety barriers and rumble strips all play an important role in preventing crashes and reducing the severity of those that do occur,” Aitchison said.

State Member for Wagga Wagga, Dr Joe McGirr, said the project responded to long-standing community calls for safety improvements.

“The works have significantly eased the risks on what was a dangerous section of the highway, meaning that locals and tourists will now have safer and more efficient journeys on this very important route,” McGirr said.