Driving between Hobart and Launceston has become significantly safer and easier this year, with the completion of another 40 kilometres of upgrades to the Midland Highway, restoring these sections to a 110 km/h speed limit.
The upgrades were 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.
The completion of these projects means the highway is back up to its maximum speeds through all these latest upgrade works.
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.
Once 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.
Once complete, 65 per cent of the highway - or around 107 kilometres out of 165 kilometres - will be three or four lanes.
The upgrades have delivered 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.
Quotes attributable to Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:
"The Australian and Tasmanian governments are jointly funding the $605 million Midland Highway 10 Year Action Plan to deliver a safer, more efficient highway.
"The completion of these latest upgrades is the latest step in making sure both visitors and locals can get to where they need to go quickly and safely."
Quotes attributable to Tasmanian Infrastructure Minister Michael Ferguson:
"We know delays and speed restrictions due to major highway upgrades can be frustrating but drivers are now seeing the benefit these works bring.
"This is a prime example of the generational improvements to infrastructure the Tasmanian Government is pursuing.
"It is also the first of similar 10-Year Action Plans we are pursuing on all the state's major highways.
"Around the state we are building safer and more efficient roads for all Tasmanians and visitors alike."
Quotes attributable to Federal Assistant Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Carol Brown:
"The Australian Government is continuing to responsibly invest in and deliver nationally significant, nation-shaping projects for Australia, and that includes vital projects on the Midland Highway.
"We are supporting Tasmania's infrastructure priorities now and into the future to drive productivity, boost economic growth and create job opportunities."
Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Lyons Brian Mitchell:
"The Australian Government's investment continues to deliver vital Midland Highway upgrades that will improve the safety and efficiency of roads around regional Tasmania.
"As I travel the Midland many times a week, I understand the importance of ensuring everyone using the highway make it home safely."
