A major road restoration program has begun across Lismore, targeting dozens of rural roads damaged in the 2022 floods, with works set to continue through to early 2028.
Lismore City Council has launched the Pavement Restoration Program, which will see more than 100 locations across 49 roads rehabilitated using new stabilisation techniques designed to improve durability and flood resilience.
The program follows detailed planning, including on-the-ground inspections and aerial imaging captured by helicopter, to identify the areas most in need of repair.
Rather than full reconstruction, the works will focus on pavement stabilisation methods such as foamed bitumen and lightly bound base, which reuse existing road materials while strengthening the surface and improving resistance to moisture.
Council says the approach allows roads to be repaired and reopened more quickly, reducing disruption for motorists while delivering longer-term benefits.
Roads included in the program span the local government area, with works planned for key routes including Broadwater Road, East Coraki Road, Eltham Road, James Gibson Road, Koonorigan Road, Nimbin Road, Stony Chute Road and Tregeagle Road.
Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg said the program was focused on long-term resilience.
“This is about more than fixing roads – it’s about building resilience for the future,” he said.
“We know how vital safe, reliable roads are, and this program will deliver lasting improvements with minimal disruption.”
The project is jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements and complements the city’s ongoing landslip restoration work, which is addressing up to 60 road failures across the region.
Federal Emergency Management Minister Kristy McBain said the investment would help communities better withstand future disasters.
“This investment is about giving communities like Lismore the confidence that their roads can stand up to future challenges and keep people connected when it matters most,” she said.
“These upgrades aren’t just repairs, they’re a commitment to safer, stronger roads that support recovery and long-term resilience.”
NSW Recovery Minister Janelle Saffin said the program demonstrated a coordinated effort across all levels of government.
“This is a fantastic example of what happens when all three levels of government work together to deliver for our communities,” she said.
“We are making sure these roads can better stand whatever the weather throws at us, keeping our locals connected and safe.”
Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan said the start of works marked an important milestone in the region’s recovery.
“This program is about getting our communities back on track after the devastation of the 2022 floods,” he said.
“These methods mean we can fix more roads quicker, and in a more cost-effective way.”
The program will roll out progressively from early 2026, with works continuing across the local government area over the next two years.
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