A significant milestone in the joint Australian and Tasmanian Government Brooker Highway Junction Upgrades has been reached today with the traffic lights to be switched on at the upgraded intersection at Howard Road.
From 7:00 pm this evening, traffic conditions at the site will change as the roundabout is removed and replaced with a new, larger intersection controlled by traffic lights. At the same time, north bound traffic on the Brooker will be moved onto new permanent traffic lanes.
The Australian Government is committing $25.6 million to the $32 million project as part of its commitment to improving Tasmanian roads and infrastructure.
Tasmanian Liberal Senator Eric Abetz said the improvements were vital as the Brooker Highway is one of the busiest sections of road in Tasmania, carrying the second highest volume of traffic in Tasmania.
“More than 1.6 million tonnes of freight is carried annually along the highway, so efficient traffic flow through this section of road is critical to productivity, while also improving safety and reducing congestion for all Tasmanians,” Senator Abetz said
"It is critical to Tasmania's transport network and this upgrade will improve its role as a strategic and freight link between Hobart and the rest of Tasmania."
"This is just another example of the Tasmanian Liberal Senate Team working in close partnership with the Tasmanian Liberal Government to deliver positive benefits for Tasmanians."
Tasmanian Minister for Infrastructure Rene Hidding said the improvements would result in improved traffic flow and less congestion for motorists during peak times.
“We are committed to measures that will result in smoother traffic flow and less congestion on our roads and these improvements will make travelling on the Brooker Highway far more efficient, saving time and money for both motorists and local businesses.”
“The works are being undertaken by Tasmanian company Hazell Bros, which is supporting Tasmanian jobs in line with our Buy Local policy."