Construction of $9.6 million in major upgrades for Macquarie Pass has begun as the NSW Government talks up its road infrastructure record in the lead-up to the 13 September Kiama by-election.

Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison and Labor by-election candidate Katelin McInerney visited the motorway west of Albion Park on Monday to explain that the essential upgrade would result in wider lanes and new safety barriers.

The improvements to key sections at the top and near the bottom of the busy Illawarra Highway will enhance travel conditions for the 4000 drivers who use this road daily.

Aitchison said the upgrades will reduce the risk of closures on the steep route following periods of extended wet weather.

“This funding is about making regional roads safer, more reliable and fairer, ensuring local communities get their fair share of road maintenance investment," she said.

“Macquarie Pass is a critical corridor for local commuters, freight operators and the tourism sector.

“These safety upgrades will provide a safer road environment and are key to ensuring the resilience of this route.

“Work carried out on the Pass is complex due to the steep terrain of the site, slope stability challenges and the tight work areas that limit worker and vehicle access.

“The design and schedule have been developed to achieve maximum results while minimising impacts to the community wherever possible.

“We appreciate the community’s patience while this work is carried out.”

The first phase of work will be at the 200-metre stretch between the top two hairpin bends, a narrow and winding section of road frequently affected by severe weather and slope instability.

Three-metre-wide travel lanes will also be installed in both directions, as well as new kerbs and safety barriers, making it safer and easier for motorists to navigate the top bends.

To stabilise the slope, long steel rods (known as soil nails) will be drilled into the embankment.

A heavy-duty mesh and concrete spray (shotcrete) will then be applied to prevent further deterioration and reduce the risk of unplanned closures.

As part of the NSW Government’s Towards Zero Safer Roads program, improvements will be carried out about 900 metres up from the Cascade Falls Picnic Area.

Work will include installing a widened centre line along a 300-metre section, minor slope stabilisation, and drainage upgrades to improve safety for road users.

McInerney and Finance Minister Courtney Houssos last Thursday announced $3 million in accelerated funding to fill potholes and undertake road repairs in the area.

“I’m very excited that these two essential projects have started. Macquarie Pass is a vital link between the Southern Highlands and the Illawarra and it comes up frequently when I talk to local residents," McInerney said.

“These upgrades will make a real difference to the safety of everyone who uses the road.

“This is a significant investment that will help reduce the risk of unplanned closures, especially during bad weather, and give the community more confidence when travelling on the route.”

Night works are occurring from 8pm to 4am, Sunday to Thursday. The project is expected to take up to six months to complete, weather permitting.

Macquarie Pass will be closed between Tongarra Mine Road and Mount Murray Road during work hours and detours will be in place that add 10 minutes for light vehicles.