Night Works on M1 and Local CBD Delays: Wollongong Commute Update

Wollongong Traffic and Public Transport Report: Wednesday, January 21, 2026

Commuters across the Illawarra can expect a relatively steady morning peak today, though significant night works on the M1 and the commencement of rail maintenance on the Illawarra Line will impact travel times later in the day and for those heading toward Sydney. As the region continues to grow, major infrastructure projects are entering critical phases this month, requiring extra vigilance from local drivers.

Mount Ousley Interchange and M1 Princes Motorway

The $390 million Mount Ousley Interchange project remains the primary focus for road users. Construction is in full swing following the New Year break. While two lanes of traffic are being maintained in both directions during daylight hours to support the 50,000 vehicles that use the corridor daily, motorists are reminded of the following night-time impacts:

• Night Work Schedule: Scheduled night works will occur tonight between 7:00 pm and 6:00 am. These works are part of a broader program running through late January, involving utility relocation and underbore preparation.
• Speed Reductions: A temporary speed limit of 60 km/h is enforced during active work hours. Motorists are urged to adhere to the signage as crews will be working close to the motorway shoulder.
• Heavy Vehicle Safety: Be aware of changed conditions near the base of Mount Ousley as work progresses on the new heavy vehicle safety ramps and the commuter car park area.

Public Transport Alerts: T4 Illawarra Line

For those utilizing rail services between Wollongong and the Sydney CBD, Transport for NSW has flagged new maintenance activities beginning today, Wednesday, January 21. Commuters should be aware of the following:

• Track Maintenance: Maintenance work is scheduled to begin between Sydenham and Hurstville. While this work is located on the Sydney end of the network, it directly impacts the T4 Eastern Suburbs & Illawarra Line.
• Trip Planning: Passengers are advised to check official trip planners for potential service adjustments. While no full line closures are scheduled for today, minor timing changes may occur to accommodate maintenance crews on the tracks.

Local Roadworks and Suburban Delays

Wollongong City Council is conducting several localized maintenance projects this week. Commuters should expect "stop/slow" traffic control and minor delays at the following sites:

• Wollongong CBD: Essential roadworks are continuing on Keira Street, while footpath upgrades are underway on Denison Street.
• Russell Vale: Footpath and shared path improvements are being carried out along sections of the Princes Highway.
• Dapto and Figtree: Significant traffic and transport works continue on Cleveland Road in Dapto, and road maintenance is active on Jacaranda Avenue and Garden Avenue in Figtree.

Drivers should allow an additional 10 to 15 minutes of travel time when moving through these suburban zones, particularly during the afternoon school run and evening peak.