A $219 million package of works has been announced for Tasmania, with major upgrades set to take place on several highways.
According to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, after a decade of neglect, many of Tasmania’s roads are not fit for purpose. “Last year Tasmania lost more than 30 people on the roads, with more than 300 critically injured. That’s not good enough,” he said.
“This investment in our Budget is about getting Tasmania moving safely – to allow people to spend less time on the road and more time with their loved ones.”
The spend includes over $124 million for new projects including:
- Lyell Highway from Granton to New Norfolk.
- Huon Highway Corridor upgrades.
- Planning along the Devonport to Cradle Mountain and Arthur Highway Corridors.
And $95 million to ensure the existing projects can be delivered:
- Mornington Roundabout Upgrade.
- Midland Highway from Campbell Town North (Campbell Town to Epping Forest).
- Algona Road Grade Separated Interchange and Duplication of the Kingston Bypass.
The Lyell Highway upgrade is designed to boost safety and reliability of travel times along narrow sections of the highway.
While the Mornington Roundabout is a key pinch point causing congestion and safety concerns. Necessary upgrades will improve driveability and traffic flow.
The planning projects along key Tasmanian corridors will lay the groundwork for a pipeline of future investments.
The latest funding announcement is in addition to the federal government’s existing investment in the state of over $2 billion, for 35 road and rail projects.
Senator for Tasmania Carol Brown added, “I’m thrilled the Albanese Government continues to invest heavily in Tasmania, with a range of exciting new projects to bolster road safety and increase productivity.
“This roads package will increase road safety and reduce the risks of serious crashes and fatalities, helping to keep Tasmanian’s safe.”