The iconic gateway to the Tasman Peninsula has been made safer for all commuters, with the completion of the $5.1 million infrastructure upgrades at Eaglehawk Neck.
The Rockliff Liberal Government funded the upgrade under its $72 million Road Package to Support Tasmania’s Visitor Economy, as part of our broader plan to build a strong economy.
The upgrade has widened the highway, improved the road surface and made it safer to turn into Blowhole Road.
Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Michael Ferguson, said as part of the project, a new pathway has been built between Old Jetty Road and Blowhole Road, making it safer for people to walk and cycle through this section of the highway.
“This initiative supports Tasmania’s visitor economy by improving access to iconic tourist destinations, including the Blowhole, Port Arthur and the peninsula’s rugged coastline,” he said.
“The project also addresses long-standing safety concerns and supports the Department of State Growth’s Towards Zero Strategy for safe roads and roadsides. I want to take this opportunity to particularly thank the members of the local Eaglehawk Neck Action Community Taskforce for their excellent advocacy and advice as we worked to deliver this project.
“The Government is getting things done and building the infrastructure needed for Tasmania’s future.”
The Government’s construction blitz is working to stimulate our economy in regional areas and making our roads safer.
In addition to the Eaglehawk Neck upgrade, the Government has committed a further $50 million to improving the Arthur Highway from the new Sorell Bypass to Port Arthur.
“To guide these upgrades, we are developing a long term corridor strategy that will undertake a thorough review of the highway’s performance and identify priority locations for improvements and upgrades,” Minister Ferguson said.
“These improvements will deliver an efficient road transport corridor that provides a safer road environment for communities right along the highway and supports the growth of the State’s visitor economy.”
Community consultation to help inform development of this strategy will start in the coming months.
