Major works have now begun on the $260 million Augusta Highway duplication project, which is one of the largest infrastructure projects ever undertaken in regional South Australia.
In a bid help improve road safety and increase freight productivity, the Augusta Highway will be duplicated between just north of the new Copper Coast Overpass and Lochiel.
“Once completed, the duplicated highway will ensure faster, safer travel for families and freight, while boosting economic growth and supporting around 330 jobs during construction,” said Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Barnaby Joyce.
The works will provide dual, two-lane carriageways along 28 kilometres of the Augusta Highway.
Federal Member for Grey, Rowan Ramsay, says the duplication of the Augusta Highway recognised the huge part northern South Australia has to play in the future of the state.
“Around 85 per cent of the Grey electorate’s population use this road regularly and with traffic loads increasing all the time they are eager for this work to commence,” Ramsey said.
“The Morrison Government is spending $110 billion Australia-wide, dragging the nation’s transport network into the 21st century.
“Already in Grey we have committed to spending more than a billion dollars and there will be more to come.”
Works will initially start just north of the new Copper Coast Overpass and move progressively along the highway. The project is expected to be completed in 2024.
In addition to the works to duplicate the Augusta Highway between Port Wakefield and Lochiel, planning for future duplication between Port Pirie and Crystal Brook is currently underway to inform future funding discussions between the Australian and South Australian governments.
The Port Wakefield to Port Augusta (PW2PA) Alliance has been awarded the contract to deliver the project.
The $260 million project is jointly funded by the Australian and South Australian governments on an 80:20 basis.
Speed and lane restrictions will be in place while works are carried out.