The State Government has flicked the switch, activating 13 new smart road signs to make travel through western and outback NSW safer, fairer and more reliable.
For years, high-tech road systems have been a feature of city driving, but now the bush is getting its fair share.
“We’re introducing high-tech safety to support regional and outback drivers. These signs will save time, reduce risk and help travellers plan safer, more reliable journeys,” said Minister for Roads and Minister for Regional Transport, Jenny Aitchison.
“Roads in outback NSW can be unpredictable and knowing whether a road is open or closed before you set off can save hours or even save lives.”
The new solar-powered electronic signs give drivers real-time updates on road conditions, showing whether a route is open, closed, caution or 4WD only.
The $1.7 million investment is part of the State Government’s Smarter Highways Program, which is modernising regional roads through innovative technology that saves lives, time and resources.
The remotely controlled, solar-powered signs have been installed at strategic intersections across more than 30,000 square kilometres of road network, covering some of the most isolated and unpredictable terrain in the state.
Previously, crews had to drive hundreds of kilometres to manually update static signs.
Now, every sign can be switched remotely by the Regional Transport Operations Centre near Byron Bay, using live data from weather stations, road crews and local communities.
Updates also appear instantly on Live Traffic NSW, so drivers can plan ahead with confidence.
“This is a big win for people living, working and travelling across western NSW.” said Independent Member for Barwon, Roy Butler.
“These smart signs can help take the uncertainty out of outback driving.”
The smart signs were designed and built in NSW, custom-made by Transport for NSW’s team at the Yennora Depot in Western Sydney before being transported thousands of kilometres to the outback.
Each sign was built in modular sections for easy assembly on-site, with crews spending weeks on the road and camping in remote locations to complete the installation.
The 13 new installations build on an earlier rollout of nine signs on the Cobb and Silver City highways, extending the network to some of the state’s most remote routes, including roads around Bourke, Wanaaring, Borrona Downs, Tibooburra, Packsaddle and White Cliffs.
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