The first stage of the $80 million upgrade to Illawarra Road, a key freight link between the Midland and Bass Highways, has been completed.
The completed first stage included widening the lanes and road shoulders between the Longford roundabout and Bishopsbourne Road and improving safety at the Bishopsbourne Road intersection.
A heavy vehicle rest area has also been created near the Longford roundabout.
Illawarra Road is a key link providing efficient access to the freight hubs between Hobart and the northern regions of Tasmania.
Tasmanian Infrastructure and Transport Minister, Michael Ferguson, said improving the efficiency and safety of transport networks is a priority for the State Government as it enhances productivity in the broader economy.
“The Tasmanian economy has been growing strongly and improving our freight transport infrastructure will ensure that growth continues,” he said.
“We are investing heavily in upgrading key freight routes and strengthening bridges to cater for modern heavy vehicles.
“Illawarra Road is a key link between the north and south of the State. Its upgrade will benefit not only our freight operators but provide a safer, more efficient route for everyone using this road.”
Planning is progressing on the next stage of improvements, with detailed design underway on a 2.9-kilometre section at the Bass Highway end of the Illawarra Road.
Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King, said the completion of this road will provide a major economic stimulus to centres in the region.
“Improved infrastructure and enhanced safety will benefit all motorists travelling on this key transport link,” she said.
The project was jointly funded by the Australian and Tasmanian Governments and aims to improve productivity and efficiency in moving freight and increasing safety for all road users.
In other news, two significant upgrades to key areas of the Bass Highway have been completed in Tasmania’s north-west.
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