The plan to widen the Pacific Highway between the New England Highway and Newcastle Inner City Bypass have been opened for public comment.

But while the ambitious plan is in the public domain from today, timing for construction will depend upon "planning approval, future traffic needs and funding availability."

The proposal, dubbed Hexham straight, is billed as an improvement to traffic flow that could deliver more reliable travel times for freight while making the roadway safer.

Minister for Transport and Roads Andrew Constance said the pitch for the Maitland Road section of the highway was expected to better link Newcastle to the M1.

"This widening project is being designed to improve travel times and safety for the 50,000 drivers who use the road every day," Mr Constance said.

"As this is the first look at the design for the Hexham Straight project, we want feedback from the community and stakeholders to help us ensure it best meets the needs of all road users," Mr Constance said.

"This is going to be a challenging project but the NSW and Australian governments are committed to widening this stretch of road to create a safer and more reliable journey for the tens of thousands of people who use it each day."

A six-kilometre stretch would have three lanes in each direction rather than the existing two. It would also add a new crossing at Ironbark Creek.

Comments on the plans are open until Febraury 5.