Usually it is the money that council is waiting on but this time the cash is there but the work is yet to start.

The $450,000 installation of traffic lights on the Howe Street and New England Highway intersection was given the greenlight in May last year and it had a 12 month deadline.

That deadline was extended to the end of the year but the work is yet to start.

We are told by the Roads and Traffic Authority that they are set to go and are now waiting on Singleton Council to complete the design for the realignment of Howe Street towards Orchard Avenue.

The project was one of nine approved in the Hunter as part of the Government’s $42 billion National Building plan and recognised because of the high number of accidents at the intersection.

This is one project that should not be put at risk and one can only assume council is giving it utmost priority.

Knowing the work must be complete in four months, as per the National Building plan guidelines is a strong incentive.

Given that it is only four months, residents should expect to see some earthworks very soon.

We hope and wait.

Meanwhile it is exciting to see the next step of the Hunter Expressway on track.

This long anticipated piece of infrastructure is on track for completion by the end of 2013 and local residents can’t wait.

The ability to get to Newcastle in around 30 minutes seems a dream and will make such a difference, especially those with loved ones in hospital or undergoing medical treatment in Newcastle.

The trip now, depending on the time of day, can largely be spent stationary, waiting in traffic.

While some will be sceptical until they are actually driving the Hunter Expressway, at least they know that work is happening.

That’s why a little physical action on earthworks in Howe Street would bring comfort to those residents who have seen more than their fair share of tragedy at this intersection.