Next upgrade projects on Tasman Highway progress towards construction

Works are progressing on the next projects that will upgrade the Tasman Highway between Sorell and Hobart. This is part of the Tasmanian Government’s initiative to build safer and more efficient roads across the State under the 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future. 

The works, including technical investigations and design work on the Midway Point and Sorell causeways, are being delivered under the $365 million South East Traffic Solution that is jointly funded by the Australian and Tasmanian Governments. 

The duplication of Midway Point and Sorell causeways will involve widening the Tasman Highway causeways at these locations, increasing the number of lanes from two to four. This project will also include the construction of a second bridge next to McGees Bridge. 

“We will be seeking the public’s views on designs for the causeways early next year. 

“At the same time, we are seeking environmental approvals from the Australian Government and monitoring temporary habitats for the protected Tasmanian Live-bearing Seastars found in the area. 

“Based on extensive scientific work done to date, we now know it is possible to move the seastars to safe areas during construction and return them after the upgrade is completed,” Minister for Infrastructure Kerry Vincent said. 

Construction will commence once all environmental and planning approvals are secured and seastars have been successfully settled on their temporary habitat. 

The project team is working to complete the designs by mid-2025 while construction tenders will be released to market when all regulatory approvals are granted. 

In addition to the duplication of the Midway Point and Sorell causeways, works are also progressing on the duplication of the Tasman Highway between the Hobart Airport and Midway Point causeway. 

The Tasman Highway – Hobart Airport to Midway Point Causeway project will upgrade the highway to two lanes in each direction, separated by a central flexible safety barrier. Traffic signals will also be installed at Pittwater Road alongside the construction of a new shared walking and cycling path. 

Safer access to Pittwater Road, the Tasmanian Golf Club and Barilla Bay Oysters will also be provided through this project. 

“Further documentation is being finalised for Australian Government environmental approval, and this will then also be released for public comment. 

“Meanwhile, construction will start on a new park and ride facility at Midway Point in 2025, with tenders currently being sought for this important project. 

“The South East Traffic Solution will help improve travel time reliability through a more efficient and safer road network between Hobart, Sorell and the Southern Beaches with the provision of an additional lane on the Tasman Highway in each direction and improved access to bus services, on completion of a Midway Point park and ride. 

“Projects already completed include an overtaking lane on the Arthur Highway, the Sorell Southern Bypass, Midway Point Intersection Solution and the Hobart Airport Interchange,” Minister Vincent said. 

Source: Premier of Tasmania – Latest News; Tasmanian Government – Transport Services (1, 2, 3)