A new dual-lane road has been constructed in a $13.7 million effort to better connect Tasmania’s Launceston airport ahead of the upcoming Summer tourism season.
The project involved widening a 1.8km section of Evandale Road to two lanes in each direction, installation of flexible safety barriers and upgrades to key intersections.
Evandale Road is a key transport link in the Launceston region, providing the main gateway to the airport and access to the nearby TRANSlink Precinct.
Recent growth in Launceston’s neighbouring industrial precinct has resulted in greater demand from heavy vehicles necessitating expanded access.
Even during quieter times of the day, the road was operating at capacity, with delays and queuing increasing during peak hours.
Tasmanian Infrastructure and Transport Minister, Michael Ferguson, said the upgrade would improve frequent traffic congestion along the popular route.
“The upgrade to two lanes in each direction keeps traffic flowing so that travellers can arrive and depart from the airport faster and freight can be delivered more efficiently,” Mr Ferguson said.
“This is an investment not only in the safety of all road users, but in supporting an important job-creating precinct.”
The $16.7 million project was jointly funded through the Australian Government’s Roads of Strategic Importance program and the Tasmanian Government’s Roads Package to Support Tasmania’s Visitor Economy.
