The final section of a $3.3-billion upgrade to the Pacific Highway between Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour opens to traffic today.

The finishing touches have been made to the six kilometres of road from Warrell Creek to Nambucca Heads.

Roads Minister Melinda Pavey tells Ray Hadley the $830 million project will improve road safety.

“We’ve had 33 crashes on this particular section of road over the past decade. It’s a notorious section.

“It’s very windy and today we’re finishing the last section.”

81% of the Pacific Highway upgrade between Newcastle and the Queensland border is now finished, with the final section set to be completed by 2020.

“We’re actually building the infrastructure that our communities so deserve and need,” Ms Pavey says.

Click PLAY below for the full interview 

Upgrades to the highway bypassing the Mid North Coast town of Macksville have special significance, with the state government naming a bridge after local cricketing hero Phillip Hughes.

Phillip was tragically killed in 2014 after he was struck by a cricket ball.

Ray says when he crosses that bridge, he will think of Phillip’s parents Greg and Virginia as well as their son.

“When I do travel that road, I’ll spare a thought for you and your family when I go across the section named after your son Phil.”