Night Works on M1 and Local Road Upgrades Set to Impact Tuesday Commuters

Tuesday Commute Overview

Commuters across the Illawarra should prepare for a mix of ongoing major infrastructure projects and local council roadworks this Tuesday, 20 January 2026. While the morning peak is expected to follow standard patterns on major arteries like Memorial Drive and the Princes Highway, several targeted work zones and localized hazards require extra caution and planning.

Major Project: Mount Ousley Interchange

The most significant impact remains the ongoing construction of the Mount Ousley interchange at the base of the M1 Princes Motorway. Transport for NSW has confirmed that essential night works are scheduled to continue tonight. Between 7:00 PM and 6:00 AM, motorists can expect lane closures and a reduced speed limit of 40 km/h for the safety of workers and road users. These works, which include utility relocations and barrier installations, are part of the broader project to replace the existing intersection with a new interchange. Heavy vehicle operators should be particularly mindful of changed traffic conditions near the site access gates located off the motorway near Northfields Avenue.

Albion Park Traffic Hazard

Drivers in the southern suburbs are advised of a localized road closure in Albion Park. Recent alerts indicate that Terry Street, between Tongarra Road (Illawarra Highway) and the Princes Motorway, has been affected by water over the road. Motorists should check for updated signage and avoid driving through floodwaters. If the causeway remains closed throughout Tuesday, detours via the M1 or local bypasses will be necessary, adding approximately 10 to 15 minutes to trips toward Shellharbour.

Suburban Roadworks and Local Impacts

Wollongong City Council has a busy schedule of maintenance and upgrades planned for the week of 19 January. Commuters should keep an eye out for "stop/slow" traffic control and minor delays in the following areas:

• Wollongong CBD: Roadworks are active on Keira Street and Denison Street, which may affect bus arrivals and local parking access.
• Figtree: Significant maintenance is underway at the Figtree Oval carpark and on Jacaranda Avenue. Pedestrians should also note footpath upgrades on Preston Street and Garden Avenue.
• Fairy Meadow: Expect minor disruptions on Helen Brae Avenue and Garratt Avenue due to road surfacing teams.
• Dapto: Ongoing transport and drainage work continues at the intersection of Cleveland Road and Fowlers Road.

Public Transport Status

The South Coast Line is currently operating on its standard Tuesday timetable. While major trackwork is scheduled for upcoming weekends, mid-week services between Bomaderry, Wollongong, and Sydney are running as planned. Commuters using the Wollongong Free Shuttle (55A/55C) should allow for slight delays when passing through the Keira Street work zones.