Significant road safety upgrades will be fast-tracked to help reduce road trauma and save lives on Tasmanian roads, thanks to a $13.38 million funding boost from the Australian and Tasmanian governments.
The funding will support a further 11 road safety projects across the state's road network, including:
- $6.74 million for shoulder sealing and widening of the Tasman Highway from Esk Main Road to Dianas Basin;
- $1 million to deliver a channelised right-turn lane on the Midland Highway at High Street; and
- $783,967 to install a new off ramp to Westbury Road from the Bass Highway.
The upgrades are jointly funded under the Road Safety Program, with the Australian Government contributing $10.7 million and the Tasmanian Government providing $2.68 million.
Projects will deliver road safety treatments including turning lanes, junction realignments, shoulder sealing and road widening.
These projects will create 60 new jobs and new opportunities for businesses and suppliers, delivering an important economic boost and helping drive Tasmania's economic recovery.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Barnaby Joyce said the road upgrades would help keep motorists safe and the economy strong.
"One life lost on Australian roads is one too many, which is why we are delivering this funding to improve roads right across the nation," the Deputy Prime Minister said.
"We are investing in shovel-ready projects that can get underway quickly, saving lives sooner while supporting local construction jobs, businesses and the economy.
"Better road infrastructure will keep motorists and freight moving safely and efficiently, reducing the number of tragedies on our roads and driving our nation's productivity.
"This additional funding under the Road Safety Program builds on the more than $33 million already flowing to 87 projects across Tasmania, all of which are already completed or underway.
"The Liberal and Nationals Government is getting the job done for Tasmanians, delivering the infrastructure they need and deserve with more than $3.8 billion committed towards infrastructure projects in the state since 2013."
Tasmanian Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Michael Ferguson said Tasmanians would reap the benefits immediately.
"We are proud to continue to partner with the Australian Government to improve road safety across the state," Mr Ferguson said.
"This is part of our shared vision to drive down the number of road deaths to zero, because any life cut short on our roads is one too many.
"And there has never been a more critical time to invest in jobs and the economy, with these works to help us bounce back stronger than ever from the global pandemic."
Federal Assistant Minister for Road Safety and Freight Transport Scott Buchholz said the new projects are expected to be delivered later this year.
"Fast-tracking road safety upgrades means that commuters, truck drivers and freight operators will be enjoying smoother, safer more efficient journeys into the future," Mr Buchholz said.
"Delivering these upgrades as soon as possible is crucial to protecting motorists while also boosting our economy on the other side of the COVID-19 pandemic.
"This is another example of the Australian Government working to reduce the number of Australians missing around the dinner table due to tragedies on our roads."
Funding under the Road Safety Program is delivering 98 projects across the state and supporting 260 jobs.
The Australian Government has committed $66 million overall under the Road Safety Program to make Tasmanian's roads safer.
