Part of a $605 million package of works for this key Tassie freight route, another 40 kilometres of upgrades have now been completed on the Midland Highway, between Hobart and Launceston.
The completion of works near Ross in February, Oatlands in March and, just recently, between Conara and Epping Forest means there is now only a 10-kilometre section between Campbell Town and Conara remaining to be done under the 153-kilometre Action Plan.
After the final stage is completed, it will raise the national safety rating for the highway to three stars, which supports the 110 km/h speed limit which is now in place.
“We know delays and speed restrictions due to major highway upgrades can be frustrating but drivers are now seeing the benefit these works bring,” said Tasmanian Infrastructure Minister Michael Ferguson.
“This is a prime example of the generational improvements to infrastructure the Tasmanian Government is pursuing.”
Once all complete, 65 per cent of the highway – or around 107 kilometres out of 165 kilometres – will be three or four lanes.
The upgrades have included highway widening, extensive use of safety barriers along the side of the highway and down the centre, and more safe overtaking opportunities through dedicated lanes.
These upgrades are part of the $605 million Midland Highway 10-Year Action Plan, which is funded by the Australian and Tasmanian governments, with the Australian Government contributing $484 million.