SMEC Secures Design Contract on Pacific Highway Upgrade

SMEC will undertake the detailed design of the 18 km Broadwater to Pimlico section of New South Wales’ largest road infrastructure project to date.

SMEC has been awarded a contract with New South Wales (NSW) Roads and Maritime Services to undertake the detailed design of the 18 km Broadwater to Pimlico section of the Pacific Highway Upgrade in New South Wales, Australia. The Pacific Highway Upgrade is one of the largest road infrastructure projects ever undertaken in NSW. Approximately 408 km (62%) of the highway between Hexham and the Queensland border is now a four-lane divided road, 145 km of highway is currently under construction, and all remaining sections are being prepared for the commencement of major works.

As part of the greater 155 km Woolgoolga to Ballina Upgrade, Broadwater to Pimlico will comprise a new greenfields section and the duplication of the existing highway to form a 110 km/h four-lane dual carriageway. Scheduled for completion in 2020, the Woolgoolga to Ballina Upgrade will signal the completion of the Pacific Highway Upgrade to a dual carriageway.

SMEC’s services on the project will include: detailed geometric design of the highway; flood studies; detailed cross drainage and longitudinal drainage design (with water quality basins); detailed design of 12 bridges, drainage culverts and retaining walls; and design of pavements and road furniture. Upon completion, the highway upgrade will: improve road conditions, reduce road accidents, support regional and economic development, improve services for local communities, reduce travel time, increase transport efficiency and improve road reliability.