Michael Ferguson,Minister for Infrastructure and Transport
Senator Claire Chandler,Senator for Tasmania
A key milestone has been reached on the Midland Highway Action Plan, with more than 50 per cent of planned safety upgrades now complete along Tasmania's main north-south route.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure,Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the Midland Highway upgrades would be delivered over 10 years from 2014–15 to 2023–24 to achieve a minimum 3 Star AusRAP Safety Rating.
"The Federal Liberal and Nationals Government has committed $400 million to this significant investment in improved safety, freight connectivity and efficiency on the Midland Highway," Mr McCormack said.
"Sixteen Midland Highway Action Plan projects have been completed since works began in 2014, getting Tasmanians home sooner and safer."
Tasmanian Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Michael Ferguson, said three major projects were recently completed, including Mangalore to Bagdad Stage 2, York Plains to St Peters Pass and Epping Forest to Powranna. Mangalore to Bagdad Stage 1 was completed in March 2017.
"These combined projects represent $75 million worth of upgrades and included shoulder widening, junction improvements and turning facilities, delivering vital safety benefits to the community," Mr Ferguson said.
"In addition, two projects are currently under construction, with works on St Peters Pass to South of Tunbridge due for completion by early 2020 and the Perth Link Roads project due for completion in 2020."
"The completion of these important projects is the result of a cooperative approach between the Hodgman and Morrison Governments working together to deliver for Tasmanians. Our Midland Highway Action Plan is also boosting the economy, creating jobs and delivering the infrastructure our growing state needs," Minister Ferguson said.
Liberal Senator for Tasmania Claire Chandler said the three newly completed projects installed flexible safety barriers and additional overtaking lanes, removed roadside hazards, realigned tight curves and created new rest areas.
"These upgrades will make the highway a safer and more pleasant drive for the many locals and tourists who use the highway to get to work, visit relatives, or explore our beautiful state," Senator Chandler said.
"The Midland Highway is also a vital freight corridor, and reduced travel times will boost the state's economic growth through freight efficiencies."
The $500 million Midland Highway upgrade project is jointly funded with the Australian Government committing $400 million and the Tasmanian Government committing $100 million.
