$77 million Arnhem Highway upgrade includes 13 new bridges over Adelaide River floodplains
THE $77 million upgrade underway on the Arnhem Highway includes 13 new bridges over the Adelaide River floodplains to prevent flooding over the road between Darwin and Kakadu
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THE $77 million upgrade to the Arnhem Highway is underway, with the aim of preventing flooding over the Arnhem Highway between Darwin and Kakadu National Park.
The project, which is jointly funded by the NT and Federal Governments, will provide 179 jobs in raising the height of 6.6kms of road and building 13 new bridges along the length of the Adelaide River Floodplain.
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The upgrades also aim to improve access to services for residents of Humpty Doo, Marrakai, Corroboree, Jabiru and Arnhem Land.
Northern Territory Minister for Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics Eva Lawler said the roadworks will improve flood immunity for the section of the Arnhem Highway.
“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.,” Ms Lawler said.
“It also connects local primary producers and industry to Darwin, facilitating the export of key resources and produce to Darwin and beyond – these links have proven to be crucial throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.”
Senator for the Northern Territory Dr Sam McMahon said the current condition of the floodplains has a major impact of the “economic viability” of the tourism industry during the wet season.
“Flooding can cause extensive delays of up to 10 days at a time, effecting the economic viability of tourism and other key industries in the area and of much inconvenience for residents and travellers,” she said.
“These vital upgrades will improve flood mitigation at the Adelaide River floodplain and increase route reliability and accessibility, while reducing the frequency of road closures throughout the wet season.”
Early works of the Beatrice Hill section started in September and included clearing and construction of a rock draining layer before construction kicked off.
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Work on the project started in late 2019 and is expected to be completed by late 2021.
The Federal Government has contributed $62.3 million to the project with the NT Government contributing the other $15.58 million.
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