Tourists and businesses to have ‘easy journeys’ as 150km of the Tanami Road is sealed
Tourists and businesses are being promised better connections between Alice Springs and outback Central Australia as a project to seal 150km of the Tanami Road begins.
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NT Infrastructure Minister Eva Lawler has promised smoother travels for tourists and businesses as 150km of the Tanami Road is set to be sealed.
The Australia and Northern Territory governments have awarded a $73m tender to seal 150km of the Tanami Road to NT business Exact Contracting.
The sealing will further support accessibility for tourists and businesses post-pandemic as it will further connect Alice Springs to Western Australia.
The Tanami Road serves as a key route for tourists as well as mining and pastoral industries.
The first 60 kilometre section is set to be worked on at the start of July this year and further sealing is anticipated to begin in October 2023.
Ms Lawler said that the works on Tanami Road from chainage 271.81 kilometres to 421 kilometres will help business and tourism be more efficient.
“The Tanami Road forms part of the Alice Springs to Halls Creek Roads of Strategic Importance corridor, connecting Alice Springs with North-West Western Australia and sees considerable traffic volumes including heavy vehicles,” she said.
“Sealing Territory roads makes for easy journeys meaning less wear and tear on vehicles, reduced freight costs, improved reliability and makes sure business keeps moving in a safe and productive way.”
Federal Member for Lingiari Marion Scrymgour said that the sealing of Tanami Road played a key role in further connecting the Red Centre with businesses and locals.
“Sealing of the Tanami Road is an example on how the Australian Government will continue to work with the Northern Territory Government to make sure that the Territory is connected,” she said.
“Tanami Road is a vital link for the entire Territory, especially in Central Australia.”
11.8km of Tanami Road was sealed by Exact Contracting in late 2021 through an early works package.
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