The Morrison Government have committed $220 million to upgrade three critical South Australian freight corridors through the Roads of Strategic Importance Initiative.
Member for Barker Tony Pasin said the ROSI initiative funding will make roads safer and boost productivity.
“This investment is yet another part of our Government’s commitment to get people home sooner and safer, while improving productivity and efficiency for business” Mr Pasin said.
“From an industry perspective this investment will increase efficiency, productivity and improve the supply chain making these freight routes more efficient means local businesses have more money to invest in their operations, creating jobs and providing a vital shot in the arm for our agricultural industry, Mr Pasin said.
The investment will improve safety, driving down business costs and better connecting regional communities. The initiative is a rolling program which will be delivered over the next ten years, providing opportunities for local industries and boosting employment for small and mid-tier companies.
It will target the economically critical corridors between Cockburn and Burra, Renmark and Gawler and the South Australian section of the Perth to Port Augusta corridor along the Eyre Highway.
Mr Pasin said the investment included a $70 million funding commitment for the corridor between Renmark and Gawler.
“This is a very important transport route and this $70 million investment will see improvements to increase safety and productivity along the corridor,” Mr Pasin said.
“This investment will include targeted upgrades to widen, strengthen and realign various sections along the corridor to improve the flow of vehicles and increase access for higher efficiency heavy vehicles.
“The result will be better access to the South Australian and New South Wales freight networks, boosting the competitiveness of South Australia’s agricultural sectors.”
While specific works are yet to be determined, Mr Pasin said he would be continuing his advocacy for a solution to the intersection of Sturt Highway and Old Sturt Highway east of Barmera and Truro By-Pass.
The Morrison Government is investing $3.5 billion nationwide through its Roads of Strategic Importance initiative to improve productivity and efficiency on key freight roads, including feeder roads.
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