Geotech work confirms need to close Tallowa Dam Road
13 MARCH 2024Geotechnical investigations have confirmed that work to repair the Tallowa Dam Road, damaged by a landslip during major flooding in 2022, will require the road’s complete closure, WaterNSW has confirmed.
The latest investigations indicate that more extensive excavations will be essential to rebuild the road, which will close to all traffic from 2 April, for up to three months, weather permitting.
WaterNSW had hoped to maintain single-lane access throughout the repairs to the road, in recognition of its importance to the local community in accessing Tallowa Dam.
To limit the short-term impact on tourism numbers, the closure has been postponed until after the Easter long weekend.
WaterNSW has communicated the changes to local authorities and key stakeholders, including those operators of tourism businesses most impacted by the closure.
To minimise impacts, work requiring road closure will be prioritised and access will be reopened as soon as possible. When reopened, there will be one-lane access with automated traffic lights until work is complete.
The three-month total closure will be dependent on weather conditions and the work schedule. The full repair project will take approximately six months to complete, including the three-month road closure.
The closure of Tallowa Dam Road will not impact road access to Bendeela camping and picnic area, accessible via Bendeela Road.
WaterNSW executive manager operations, Ronan Magaharan said WaterNSW had prioritised the road repair and enlisted the services of a specialist engineering firm to assist with the challenging project.
“WaterNSW regards restoring access to Tallowa Dam Road as a priority due to the operational requirements relating to Tallowa Dam, and the road’s
importance to the local community’s ongoing economic recovery from flooding, bushfires, drought and the after-effects of the pandemic,” Mr Magaharan said.
WaterNSW continues to work with the Shoalhaven and Kangaroo Valley community, key agencies such as National Parks and Wildlife Service and impacted local businesses to provide updates on the situation.
“All parties acknowledge the complexity of the project due to the extensive damage to the hillside supporting the road, and as a result, WaterNSW has employed engineering experts to assist in planning and undertaking the work,” he said.
