A $11.8 million road upgrade has delivered a safer, more resilient freight link in the Pilbara, with Stage 5 of the Utah Road Pavement Rehabilitation Project now complete.
Pilbara Ports, in partnership with Ventia, has finished the fifth stage of works on the 8.1-kilometre Utah Road corridor, restoring one of the Pilbara’s most heavily trafficked freight routes.
The State Government-funded upgrade forms part of a $32.2 million multi-stage program aimed at future-proofing critical port infrastructure.
Utah Road is the sole connection between the Great Northern Highway and Pilbara Ports’ Utah Bulk Handling Facility, a high-capacity export hub for iron ore, salt and mineral sands. It also serves as the access route to FMG’s Anderson Point and BHP’s Finucane Island terminals.
More than 500 road trains use the road each day, including super-quad combinations capable of hauling up to 140 tonnes per load. Heavy traffic and axle loading have long placed strain on the pavement, prompting the staged rehabilitation program to increase structural strength, safety and operational efficiency.
Pilbara Ports said the latest works were delivered with minimal disruption to trade. The upgrade is expected to reduce maintenance costs for operators and extend the life of freight vehicles by minimising wear and tear.
“Investing in critical infrastructure like Utah Road ensures we can continue to support Western Australia’s thriving resources sector,” said Ports Minister Stephen Dawson.
“The completion of Stage 5 not only strengthens a key freight route but also enhances safety and efficiency for many operators who rely on this corridor every day. The Cook Government is investing in infrastructure that boosts resilience for our regional communities.”
Pilbara MLA Kevin Michel said: “The project delivers safer, more reliable access to the Utah Bulk Handling facility, which plays a vital role in moving our regions commodities to the world”.
“It is great to see government and industry work together to solve problems, while maintaining safety and efficiency of port operations,” Michel said.
The remaining stages of the Utah Road Pavement Rehabilitation Project are scheduled for completion under the same investment program.
