Huon Hwy overpass to boost TAS road safety

Tasmanian motorists will benefit from easier access to safer roads after the opening of the new Huon Highway overpass at Summerleas Road near Kingston.

Federal Minister for Urban Infrastructure and Cities Paul Fletcher said the Summerleas Road intersection had a history of crashes due to traffic crossing the highway and the opening of the overpass was a major milestone in ongoing efforts to improve safety on the key transport corridor.

“The Huon Highway connects the Huon Valley and major industries such as forestry, aquaculture and agriculture to central Hobart and other destinations so it’s very important that this vital connection is safe for motorists and fit for purpose,” Mr Fletcher said.

“The Summerleas Road intersection sits adjacent to Kingston, one of greater Hobart’s highest growth residential areas, and links residential areas to commercial, education and other facilities,” he said.

The project is funded by both State and Federal governments, which have invested $4.5 and $17.5 million respectively.

Tasmanian Minister for Infrastructure Rene Hidding said highway traffic was now passing over where Summerleas Road would be located once the overall upgrade is completed mid-year.

his ongoing project will improve safety for all who travel in the region as well as supporting hundreds of jobs,’ Mr Hidding said.

Now that motorists are using the new overpass, construction will begin on ramps and roundabouts underneath the structure. Installation of flexible safety barriers will also continue,” he said.

“Speed restrictions and altered traffic conditions will continue throughout the construction period, and we thank motorists for their patience while this vital infrastructure upgrade is delivered,” Mr Hidding said.

The overpass is scheduled to be completed in mid-2018.