$100 Million Program to Improve Freight Access in Tasmania
The state of Tasmania in Australia has initiated a new program aimed at improving freight access on its state road network. The Freight Capacity Upgrade Program is a significant undertaking that involves the strengthening or replacement of various bridges and the improvement of road sections. The program has a budget of $100 million, with $80 million committed by the Australian Government and $20 million by the Tasmanian Government.
Increasing Freight Capacity
The Freight Capacity Upgrade Program is a jointly funded initiative aimed at increasing the freight capacity of critical and regional freight routes throughout Tasmania. The program will involve the strengthening or replacement of various bridges and improving sections of roads to allow for higher mass limit vehicles to operate.
The first stage of the program includes the strengthening of 11 bridges, replacement of two bridges, and road improvements at 14 sites. Upon completion, the program will enable access to an additional 224 kilometers of state roads approved for Higher Mass Limit vehicles.
Benefits of the Program
The Freight Capacity Upgrade Program is expected to have far-reaching benefits for the state of Tasmania. The program will greatly assist freight operators in planning for the future and give them confidence to expand their operations. The improved infrastructure will also extend the lifespan of critical and regional freight routes throughout the state, improving access for operators of heavy vehicles and providing benefits for the state’s agriculture, resources, and manufacturing industries.
Moreover, the program will minimize the long-term maintenance costs to the state, and improve road safety by allowing for more efficient and reliable transport of goods. Additionally, improving the transport infrastructure in Tasmania will help ensure that the state's economy continues to grow strongly.
Construction Details
Work has already started on several road strengthening projects, and tenders closed on 15 March 2023 for the first two bridge strengthening projects: Pipers River Bridge on Bridport Road in the state’s north-east and Ring River Bridge on the Murchison Highway on the west coast. The program is expected to create an estimated 190 jobs during the construction phase, with an Indigenous employment and supplier-use target of 4.5 per cent.
Comments from Government Officials
Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, and Local Government Minister Catherine King have expressed her commitment to improving road safety and freight efficiency. She believes that this investment will ease congested roads while also creating opportunities for Tasmanians. She stated, "Our funding, by helping continue this successful economic productivity initiative for the next five years, is key in ensuring Tasmania’s road network is as safe and as efficient as possible."
Tasmanian Infrastructure and Transport Minister Michael Ferguson views the Freight Capacity Upgrade Program as a way to enhance the productivity of Tasmanian freight and increase efficiency and road safety. He believes that this investment is excellent news for the community and will support local jobs while also backing the freight industry.
In conclusion, the Freight Capacity Upgrade Program is a vital initiative that will enable Tasmania to improve its freight transport infrastructure. This program will have significant benefits for the state's economy and local industry, improving road safety and efficiency, and providing employment opportunities. The program is expected to run for five years, with a focus on ensuring that Tasmania's road network is safe and efficient for the future.