A Roads and Maritime Services spokesperson said it is important to have a directional signage plan in place as the Australian and NSW Government funded project reaches final building stages.

“The project is being delivered in two sections - from the Oxley Highway to Kundabung and from Kundabung to Kempsey, with early work already completed at the Sancrox interchange,” the spokesperson said.

“The Oxley Highway to Kempsey upgrade is expected to be completed by the end of 2017, weather permitting.”

An important consideration for the 37-kilometre upgrade is the placement and design of directional signs to guide motorists.

Consultation has been carried out with Port Macquarie-Hastings and Kempsey Shire councils, the Tourist Attraction Signposting Assessment Committee and community representatives during the development of the draft plan.

A key feature of the plan is the inclusion of directional signs for Tourist Drive 10 at the Blackmans Point Rd interchange and Tourist Drive 12 at the South Kempsey interchange to ensure visitors can explore the best attractions and scenery in the Port Macquarie and lower Macleay Valley areas.

Directional signs for local towns and destinations will be installed at major interchanges, including the Sancrox, Blackmans Point Rd, Haydons Wharf Rd, Kundabung and South Kempsey interchanges.

“New local roads are being built as part of the upgrade and these provide access to residents living alongside the existing Pacific Highway. The names for these roads have been provided by the respective local councils,” the spokesperson said.

Community members can view the signage plan online at www.rms.nsw.gov.au/pacific or in person at the:

 Oxley Highway to Kundabung community display centre at Pembrooke

 Kundabung to Kempsey community display centre at Kundabung

 Kempsey Shire Council chambers in Kempsey

The community is invited to provide feedback about these plans until Friday, December 16.

Of the 657 kilometres of the Pacific Highway from Hexham to the Queensland border, 459km have been upgraded to a four lane divided highway.

About 70 per cent of the highway is now complete with around 148 kilometres or 22 per cent, being built. All projects between Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour are targeted to progressively open to traffic next year.