Maitland MP Jenny Aitchison says the $2.1 billion M1 Motorway extension to Raymond Terrace and Hexham Straight widening are "on track" to open as scheduled.
The Minister for Regional Transport and Roads said at a media event at Heatherbrae on Wednesday that the projects were progressing "really fantastically".
"Every time you drive past you seem to see more," Ms Aitchison said.
"It really is going hard. It's on track and we're really excited with the progress we're having."
A joint venture between John Holland and Gamuda is building the 10-kilometre southern section of the extension from Black Hill to Tomago, including a new bridge over the Hunter River.
Seymour Whyte Constructions is building the 5km northern section bypassing Heatherbrae.
The project is scheduled to be finished in the middle of 2028.
Ms Aitchison said the Hexham Straight widening, which is due to open in 2026, also appeared to be on schedule.
"To my understanding everything's pretty much on track with it.
"There's not any concerns with it."
She said motorists should plan ahead for the closure of Tarro rail bridge from Saturday to Tuesday for long-term repairs to the bridge pylons and southern abutment.
The Newcastle Herald revealed concerns about serious structural issues with the bridge in December.
The company responsible for maintaining the bridge urged the state government to close it to traffic immediately in October.
Transport for NSW rejected the recommendation but closed it partially for three weeks of emergency repairs.
Transport for NSW network and assets executive director Tom Grosskopf said the work this weekend and next week would shore up the pylons for another 10 to 20 years.
"We will always keep the deck of the bridge under surveillance and we'll continue to do maintenance works to keep it all in good order," he said.
Ms Aitchison announced that applications were open for the next annual intake of Transport for NSW apprentices in 12 jobs areas ranging from trades to business and finance.
Applications for the 2025 Regional and Outer Metropolitan Apprentice and Trainee Programs close on August 28.
The programs offer 59 apprenticeship places across the state.
Maitland second-year apprentice Coby Burkill said the program had allowed her to move from a hospitality job to bridge carpentry, despite having no professional experience in the construction sector.
"There's so many opportunities. You can start in one thing and continue on to something different if you prefer," she said.
"I'd recommend it to anyone looking for a change of career or looking to kick-start something new."
Matthew Caldwell, a civil construction apprentice working at Waratah, said he had been studying at university and working part-time jobs before taking on an apprenticeship.
"I thought that [university] was the only way to get into the workforce," he said.
"So far it's been probably one of the best experiences of my life.
"I get to effect positive change in the city I've grown up in, which is a great chance."
