With the first sod turned, construction can commence on the third stage of the Karratha-Tom Price Road Upgrade in Western Australia, which is expected to support up to 100 local jobs during the construction phase.
“More than 100 local jobs are expected to be created on Stage 3 alone with construction due to be completed in mid-2020, soon more tourists and locals alike will be able to use this road and see all the Pilbara has to offer firsthand,” Premier Mark McGowan said.
The $81.5 million project will comprise of sealing a 48-kilometre section of road as well as the construction of new pavement and drainage structures. MACA Civil Pty Ltd will be undertaking these works.
This upgrade will help reduce travel times and road closures as well as improve safety especially during the wet season.
“The Karratha-Tom Price Road is an important piece of infrastructure in the Pilbara and these upgrades will make it safer and easier for people to travel.
“This will support local communities, and will further develop tourism and industry opportunities into the future,” Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said.
Once the entire Karratha-Tom Price Road Upgrade is completed, motorists will be able to experience improved access to Millstream Chinchester National Park and Karijini National Park. The upgrade will also bring a boost in tourist traffic in this Pilbara area.
The mining industry in the region will also benefit from this vital upgrade through improved productivity due to better transport route options.
“The upgrades are along a key freight route that supports the mining industry, and will help facilitate other economic opportunities for the region.
“The project will provide better connections for regional communities, boost road safety and reliability and also improve access for high capacity vehicles,” Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said.
This upgrade project will strongly focus on providing regional employment and opportunities for local businesses which includes Indigenous-owned companies.
During the construction phase, public traffic will be re-routed to a parallel detour track - with the help of Rio Tinto - to help considerably reduce project costs.
Construction is due to be completed by mid-2020.
This project is jointly funded by the Australian and Western Australia Governments and a total of $310 million has been allocated for the delivery of Stages 3 and 4.
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Source: Government of Western Australia; Main Roads WA
