River Street Duplication

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To support a growing community and address road congestion, Ballina Shire Council will deliver dual-lane access along River Street between the Pacific Highway, West Ballina and Kerr Street, Ballina. 

River Street carries the largest volume of traffic in and out of Ballina and is at capacity during peak hours. Traffic flow recorded for 2019 was 26,100 vehicles per day and traffic modelling predicts traffic flow in 2036 will be 29,500 vehicles per day. Two-lane arterial roads have the capacity for around 18,000 vehicles per day whereas a four-lane road can cater for 36,000 vehicles per day. 

Once complete, the four-lane road from West Ballina into Ballina Island will double the road’s capacity and comfortably cater for traffic into the future. This project is estimated to cost $27.5 million and is a significant investment to help improve our road network. 

During 2019/20, Ballina Shire Council prepared concept plans and conducted public consultation. Council's crews are now delivering the adopted program of works across four stages. Stage 1 of the project opened to dual traffic lanes in early November 2021. Stage 2 commenced 23 January 2023.

Map of River Street duplication works showing work area

Ballina Shire Council thanks the local businesses and wider community for their continued patience as we near completion of this important upgrade.


Project stages

Council will complete this significant road network investment across four stages, subject to availability of funds. Council is now focusing on the project's second stage from Henry Philp Avenue to Tweed Street, Ballina. 

Signalised Pedestrian Crossing

Installation of the signalised pedestrian crossing on River Street near the Westower Tavern, between Riverview Avenue and Quays Drive, West Ballina, is now complete. 

The pedestrian crossing lights were switched on Tuesday 11 July 2023. This will provide a safer crossing for both pedestrians and cyclists.

Other works completed include:

  • Upgrade to the existing bus stop to widen the bus bay
  • Construction of a new shared path
  • Line marking and signage
  • Minor landscaping

* Preconstruction activities include design, environmental & planning assessment/approvals, geotechnical investigation, consultation and any tendering activities.
This timetable is indicative only and subject to change based on preconstruction activities and available funding. Project costs are outlined as Capital Expenditure in the Delivery Program Operational Plan for 2020-2024.

Frequently Asked Questions

Stage 3 of the River Street Duplication project will include duplication of the Fishery Creek Bridge and its approaches. Planning and approvals is continuing and works are expected from 2024 - 2025 (subject to funding and approvals). There is a long lead time for pre-construction activities such as community consultation, geotechnical investigations, design, procurement and appropriate environmental and regulatory approvals. It is best to use this time to complete Stage 1 and 2.

Dust may be present during construction. Council’s contractor will use water carts to help minimise dust. There will be noise present during construction. Construction works will occur during the day to limit disruption to residents and visitors staying with accommodation providers.

In order to duplicate the outside westbound lane, we will need to raise the level of the existing footpath between 312 to 366 River Street. In some cases this may result in changes to property entries, which has previously been discussed with property owners.

During construction pedestrian access will be maintained, however at times there may be temporary pedestrian detours around construction zones.

Street parking will be unavailable during construction. Motorists will need to use alternative parking either side of the construction zone.

Council will be contacting individual businesses before the project commences to discuss customer and delivery access. Where possible Council will maintain access or provide alternate access points.

Businesses and residents are encouraged to review the design plans. For those who wish to discuss these works please contact Council’s Project Manager, Robert Conn, on 6681 0538.

Business operators and residents may experience power and water outages during these works. Council will notify impacted properties in advance before these outages occur.

During construction the bus stop will be temporarily relocated to the nearest available ‘clear zone’ towards Tweed Street as shown on the map.

Resources

More information

Please contact, Brett Dyki, Project Management Office, Ph 1300 864 444.

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The General Manager
Ballina Shire Council
PO Box 450
Ballina NSW 2478

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