The additional upgrades will allow for increased accessibility for SA freight networks
The Australian Government has announced a $400 million funding boost to help make the Horrocks Highway upgrades safer.
The funding injection will improve the key freight route of the Horrocks Highway for local primary producers and will enhance the driver experience for those travelling to the Clare Valley and Mid North.
This latest funding increase from the Australian Government brings their total investment to $84 million in an 80/20 split with the South Australian Government on the $105 million project.
Additional upgrades to the region will help widen and strengthen bridges at Wakefield River, Hutt River and Rocky River.
The added funding will also be used to upgrade local road junctions, deliver shoulder sealing and curve widening, install safety barriers and audio tactile line marking and provide overtaking lane extensions at Tarlee and Templers.
These upgrades support the installation of new overtaking lanes and shoulder seals along priority sections between Clare and Auburn and south of Giles Corner, as well as other works on the area like the improvement of the Gladstone level crossing and a bridge and culvert replacement north of Melrose.
“Safer and more efficient highways mean freight can be moved to international and domestic buyers more quickly, ensuring these important sectors continue to drive our economy,” Deputy PM Barnaby Joyce says.
“It will also support 135 jobs during construction to provide a much-needed short-term economic boost.”
RELATED ARTICLE: Funding boost for outback way upgrade
Finance minister and senator for South Australia, Simon Birmingham says the road upgrade will the safety and road quality of travelling on the highway, while also increasing accessibility for local freight networks.
“The Horrocks Highway is a vital rural route in South Australia, and is a major gateway connecting primary producers and tourists alike from the Clare Valley to the Mid North of our state,” Birmingham says.
“Upgrading this key route will also improve access for our primary producers and local businesses to domestic and international markets, ensuring their local produce can get to where it needs to.”