4 May 2020

Motorists enjoying smoother and safer journeys along the upgraded Pacific Highway will be encouraged to visit some of the bypassed towns, with new signs showing the services and tourist attractions on offer.

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole said the signs would be installed near Ballina, Urunga and Woolgoolga from this week, under the NSW Government’s commitment to boost regional economies.

“The Pacific Highway upgrade is the largest regional road infrastructure project in Australia and is transforming journeys along the North Coast,” Mr Toole said.

“The upgrade will reduce travel times by 2.5 hours between Hexham and the Queensland border but we still want tourist dollars being spent in regional towns where possible. That’s why we’re delivering on our election commitment to install these signs which will outline what services or tourist attractions are on offer.

“These signs are the largest directional signs in NSW, and will be installed on the highway at both the northbound and southbound approaches to the town.”

Nationals Member of the Legislative Council Ben Franklin said Transport for NSW had worked with the local council to develop the preferred images for the signs, which will be installed at Ballina on Thursday, 7 May and Friday, 8 May.

“These signs have been popular in other locations, driving more visitors to regional towns and tempting them to explore what they have to offer,” Mr Franklin said.

“The Ballina signs will showcase its beautiful location at the mouth of the Richmond River.”

Each sign will have symbols to indicate what services are available, including hospitals, 24-hour fuel, food and accommodation, and are reflective so motorists can easily see them at night.

For more information about bypassed town signage, go to: nswroads.work/bypassed-town.