The Australian Government is investing over $43 million into roads throughout Tasmania to improve freight efficiency and drive economic growth.
Several road projects have been announced for the north east of the state, including an investment of $20 million to progress planning and design work for the New Tamar Crossing which is expected to start this year.
Further south, $10 million will go towards improving the resilience of Esk Main Road at St Marys Pass, ensuring it remains open and safe during severe weather events.
This investment is expected to reduce the economic cost of closures and emergency repairs of the main access road between the Midland Highway and the east coast.
“Getting vital planning done for the New Tamar Crossing will support Launceston’s growing population by allowing them to move faster and more safely across the region,” said Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King.
“The project will enhance the resilience of the road network by providing increased flood immunity while also better connecting people between where they live and work.”
Additional funding will also ensure the delivery of other critical projects across the north.
This includes an extra $4 million for further safety improvements to Bridport Road such as pavement rehabilitation, road widening and improvements to junctions which will increase freight productivity and enhance access to freight gateways.
The Murchison Highway corridor will receive $4 million such as overtaking lanes, shoulder sealing and curve-widening works and $3.8 million will support further planning and concept design work for the Devonport to Cradle Mountain corridor.
On top of these developments, the Australian Government has brought forward $15.6 million of funding for the Tasmanian Freight Rail Revitalisation – Tranche 4 – Network project.
This will allow the ongoing delivery of improved network performance and assurance of supply chains for Tasmania’s largest freight producers.
“Road upgrades are essential to road user safety ensuring our community remains safe on our roads,” said Senator for Tasmania, Helen Polley.
“In particular, this funding will ensure safer roads for people working in our transport industry and ease the daily commute.”
In other news, a $1.1 billion upgrade has been announced for the Western Freeway.
