Are we there yet? Southern Outlet works progress
The first stage of the expansion of Hobart’s Southern Outlet is nearly complete, with the focus to soon shift to the southern end of the project, Infrastructure Minister Kerry Vincent says.
Tasmania
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The first stage of the expansion of Hobart’s Southern Outlet is nearly complete, with the focus to soon shift to the southern end of the project, Infrastructure Minister Kerry Vincent says.
The state government is spending $200m to install a fifth transit lane on the Southern Outlet.
Minister Vincent said nightworks had been a key feature minimsing the impact on peak traffic flows to date.
“The projects started with the creation of an extra lane through the removal of parking spaces in upper Macquarie Street, which was completed in 2024,” he said.
“The construction of the Southern Outlet Transit lane connector between Davey and Macquarie Streets began in August 2024 and will be completed in early 2025 providing an additional lane through that section.
“Construction works were undertaken off-road and at night to minimise the impact on peak commuter traffic.
Three full property acquisitions were negotiated on Dynnyrne Road, none of which were compulsorily acquired, the minister said.
“The next stage of the project is rock protection work on the Southern Outlet, which is required prior to commencement of the fifth lane up to Olinda Grove. This project will be tendered in coming months
“Planning is underway to reduce impacts on traffic during the construction period.
“Options to reduce the construction impacts on traffic flow may include working at night or outside of peak periods with the aim to minimise extended lane closures.
“The T3 lane will support a greater uptake of public transport and car-pooling, and improved travel times and reliability for transit lane users. It will be available for use by buses, emergency vehicles and any other vehicle with three or more occupants.
“Importantly, the T3 lane will provide an advantage to all road users, regardless of whether they use it, by adding to the four existing lanes.
Mr Vincent said the would give the 60,000 Tasmanians who live in the Kingborough and Huon Valley municipalities better connectivity to Hobart.
Originally published as Are we there yet? Southern Outlet works progress
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