Critical work will be undertaken to bolster a key bridge in Tasmania’s metropolitan road network as the first stage of the Freight Capacity Upgrade Program gets underway.
A strengthening project will be undertaken on Charles Street Bridge in Launceston as part of the $100 million Freight Capacity Upgrade Program.
Charles Street Bridge is among 11 bridges to undergo strengthening during stage one alongside two other bridges and road improvement works at 14 other sites.
The program is being delivered over five years with design for select Stage 1 projects already underway.
Tenders for the Charles Street Bridge strengthening, along with other bridge sites, are expected to be called during mid-2023, with construction starting later in the year.
The Australian Government has committed $80 million to the transformational program, with the Tasmanian Government set to contribute $20 million.
According to the Tasmanian Government, it will increase the freight capacity of critical and regional freight routes across the Apple Isle by strengthening or replacing various bridges and improving sections of roads.
Assistant Minister for Regional Development, Anthony Chisholm, said the Federal Government is committed to keeping the freight transport industry moving.
“We are proud to partner with the Tasmanian Government to deliver the Freight Capacity Upgrade Program, which over the life of the program, will open up to 224km of State road and bridge network capability to increase freight productivity for critical state industries such as agriculture and manufacturing,” he said.
“This is among the first of many projects to come that will prove a game-changer in terms of building a safer, more productive transport network benefiting all Tasmanian road users.”
In other news, the Western Australian Government is rolling out its Heavy Vehicle Driving Operations training program in Kimberley and Pilbara.
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