Highways set for Upgrade

PETER STYLES
MINISTER FOR INFRASTRUCTURE

Truck bays at the Stuart and Carpentaria Highway intersection at HiWay Inn, and the Victoria Highway Sandy Creek Crossing are undergoing upgrades, Minister for Infrastructure Peter Styles said.

Mr Styles said the works were vital to help keep Territory road users safe.

“Our government is committed to ensuring the safety of our roads and our road users and we will do our utmost to make this happen,” he said.

The $1.7 million contract has been awarded and works have begun on the intersection improvements on the Stuart and Carpentaria Highways with the truck parking bays expected to be completed in November 2013.

Mr Styles said the Carpentaria and Stuart highway intersection would be upgraded to improve access and outlets arrangements to the HiWay Inn, to direct traffic and enhance safety.

“The truck parking bays to be provided at the HiWay Inn will complement an ultimate series of truck bays which are intended to be provided at about 80km spacings,” he said.

“They will address fatigue in long distance transport operators.”

Works have also begun on a $3.7 million contract to upgrade the Victoria Highway Sandy Creek Crossing, which is expected to be finished in December 2013.

“This work is being undertaken to improve flood immunity during wet weather,” he said.

“This is especially relevant on those roads subject to the monsoon rainfalls which can stop and delay the transport of goods, livestock and traffic.

“Sandy Creek frequently causes traffic delays during the wet season, and as a result time is lost and in some cases perishable goods adversity affected.

“The approaches to the creek crossing itself are the most affected with water ranging deep enough to stop heavy vehicles.

“The project will provide a new culvert and ultimately see works to elevate the approaches.”

These works were funded by the Commonwealth Government under the Nation Building Program.

Source: ProjectLink.com.au

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