Tender for $77.8m Adelaide River Flood Plains Upgrade in NT released to market

The $77.8 million Adelaide River Flood Plains Upgrade in the Northern Territory is one step to getting built, with the construction tender for the first package of works released to market.

This multi-million dollar project will include major upgrade works to a 6.5-kilometre section of the Arnhem Highway. Works will comprise of:

• Raising the height of the road by 1.3 metres above the existing road level

• 13 bridge structures along the new 6.5-kilometre alignment

According to Acting Minister for infrastructure, Planning and Logistics Nicole Manison, this upgrade will help ensure year round access to the Kakadu National Park area as well as the continuity of business for producers and tourism to the region.

“The Adelaide River Flood Plains upgrade project is a significant investment for the region, securing future economic development for the East Arnhem region, while creating jobs for Territorians.

“The Arnhem Highway is a major transport link connecting Darwin and Kakadu National Park - a major tourist attraction to the Northern Territory, and the service centre of Jabiru. It also connects local primary producers and industry to Darwin, facilitating the export of key resources and produce to Darwin and beyond,” Minister Manison said.

The Adelaide River Flood Plains Upgrade is going to be tendered in two stages, with the first one for earthworks already released to market. The second tender - for the manufacturing and installation of bridges work - is set to be released in January 2019.

In addition to improved flood immunity along the Adelaide River Flood Plains, the upgrade will also help improve reliability and accessibility on the Stuart Highway as well as reduce road closures along the route.

Construction is expected to commence in the first half of 2019, with completion anticipated by late 2020.

The upgrade is jointly funded by the Australian and Northern Territory Government, each contributing $62.3 million and $15.58 million respectively.

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Source: Northern Territory Government Newsroom; Department of Infrastructure, Regional Development and Cities; Roads and Infrastructure Australia