Victoria Highway roadworks to be fast-tracked with $8.54 million funding windfall
KEY Northern Territory freight route the Victoria Highway has been given an $8.54 million fast track to help provide work during the coronavirus downturn.
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KEY Northern Territory freight route the Victoria Highway has been given an $8.54 million fast track to help provide work during the coronavirus downturn.
Deputy Prime Minister and Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Minister Michael McCormack said the Morrison Government has approved funding to ensure early works on the Roads of Strategic Importance (ROSI) project could get under way as soon as possible.
“Moving forward with these priority projects is important now more than ever to support local jobs, bolster our economy and provide the safe and efficient transport connections needed for all Australians to get moving again,” Mr McCormack said.
He said the work was part of the Federal Government’s $100 billion, 10-year infrastructure pipeline intended to pave the path to economic recovery from the COVID-19 crisis.
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Northern Territory Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics Minister Eva Lawler said the funding would target two priority sections along the highway.
“These upgrades will improve the important connection for our local communities, industry, transport operators and tourists, making sure the Northern Territory is ready for the rebound post COVID-19,” Ms Lawler said. She said the work will help create safe and reliable roads that will support the cattle industry and heavy vehicle operators in the Territory.
Northern Territory senator Sam McMahon said the projects would improve flood immunity to provide safe transport connections for communities and freight year-round.
“This project will improve the highway’s flood immunity, which is absolutely critical for connecting residents and freight operators to other parts of the Territory and the country even during the wet season,” Senator McMahon said.
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The upgrades to the Victoria Highway are jointly funded by the Australian and Northern Territory Governments.
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