The $58 million Keep River Road project is now complete and officially open.
Local Territory business Exact Contracting Pty Ltd delivered this project, which supported 111 direct jobs at the peak of construction, including 26 Indigenous employees.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the completed works have improved safety and reliability of this critical supply route and will further support economic growth in the north.
“The Federal Government is making good on its commitment to get Australians where they need to go sooner and safer, something we have learnt during the COVID-19 pandemic,” Mr McCormack said.
“This is an important investment on a vital transport link for industries which rely on this road to move produce from paddock to plate as well as give the local economy a shot in the arm 111 construction jobs which were created through this project.”
The benefits of this new completed road include:
- Increased route accessibility to support agricultural development;
- Improved freight capacity, through sealing of existing pavements;
- Improved flood immunity, through provision of new bridges over the Keep River and Sandy Creek;
- Increased regional productivity and economic development, through provision of year-round road access.
Northern Territory Minister for Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics, Eva Lawler said the upgrades not only improve road safety it also opens up new diversifying economic industries within the NT.
“This newly upgraded road will help access to Legune Station, Spirit Hills Station, Cannon Hills Station, Kneebone Outstation and Marralum Family Outstation. It will also strengthen transport connections for agriculture, resources and pastoral industries – creating opportunities for future investment and more jobs for the region, such as project Sea Dragon,” Ms Lawler said.
“The upgrades open up more economic development opportunities for the Northern Territory. Last month the Northern Territory Government announced an expression of interest for three parcels of land, including one along the Keep River Road.”
Senator for the Northern Territory Dr Sam McMahon said this investment has delivered a significant boost for the region.
“Completed upgrades to Keep River Road is fantastic news for the local community and for the whole Northern Territory,” Dr McMahon said.
