Murchison Highway Upgrade

Project Description

This project will upgrade targeted areas along the Murchison Highway.

The first project includes the strengthening of one existing bridge on the Murchison Highway and three existing bridges on the Zeehan Highway to meet contemporary heavy freight vehicle loads.

The second project includes the widening and shoulder sealing of the existing Murchison Highway over approximately 2 kilometres between Mackintosh Bridge and Pieman Road.

The third project includes road widening, pavement strengthening, intersection upgrades, improved drainage and visibility for oncoming traffic and an improvement to sight distances to extend overtaking opportunities on the Murchison Highway between Sterling River Bridge and Mackintosh Bridge.

Scoping will continue for additional works to be identified between the Stitt River Bridge and Zeehan Highway, Zeehan Highway between Murchison Highway and Little Henty River Bridge and Fossey River Rest Area.

Benefits

The package of works will increase freight efficiency and reduce travel times on the Murchison Highway. The package will also facilitate inter-regional connections to and from northern export ports in Tasmania, improve the safety of the highway and support tourism.

Funding

The Australian Government will contribute up to 80 per cent, capped at $35 million.

Timetable

The upgrades commenced in May 2019 and are expected to be complete by mid 2024.