The WA government has worked with BHP and the federal government to further develop its road and rail safety projects
The Western Australian government says the first package of works on the Port Hedland Road and Rail Safety improvement project is now complete.
Stage one has been officially opened, which includes the construction of a bridge over BHP’s rail line at Buttweld Road.
The 34-metre-long bridge was constructed by Highway Construction-Albem Operations Joint Venture as part of the $31.48 million BHP funded stage one works.
Construction of two roundabouts on Powell Road at the intersections of Dalton and Hamilton roads were also completed as part of stage one in June 2022.
Construction has begun on the $76 million second package of works, which has also been awarded to Highway Construction-Albem Operations Joint Venture.
The project involves the realignment of approximately 4.75 kilometres of the Great Northern Highway (north of the Port Hedland International Airport and the Walkabout Village), including the construction of new access roads due to the realignment.
A second bridge over the BHP rail line will also be constructed, eliminating the existing level crossing.
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Construction is expected to take just over 12 months, with work estimated to be completed in late-2023, and will be managed by Main Roads WA with support from project partner BHP.
“This is an important package of improvements that will bring major safety and economic benefits to Port Hedland,” federal transport minister Catherine King says.
“The federal government is pleased to partner with BHP and the WA government to support these important upgrades.”
WA transport minister Rita Saffioti says: “This project is a fantastic example of governments working closely with industry to deliver better outcomes for the local community, and while we’re at the halfway point of this project, it is already delivering improved road safety.”
“Removal of these rail crossings will eliminate the risk of accidents, and the need for vehicles to be stuck at rail crossings for long periods of time, whilst long freight trains pass by.”