Clarence City Council thanks the Federal Government for its budget commitment for projects designed to deliver vital traffic relief for Eastern Shore commuters.
As part of the Federal Budget announcement, Federal Treasurer Josh Frydenberg has committed to a $350 million infrastructure spend for Tasmania.
This includes $65 million to be put towards the Tasman Bridge upgrade and $187 million in funding support for the duplication of the Sorell Causeway and McGees Bridge.
This funding forms part of a bid to stimulate the local economy by creating an additional 2,220 jobs across the state.
Clarence City Council Mayor Alderman Doug Chipman said the budget announcement for these vital upgrade projects would have a direct long-term benefit for City of Clarence residents, as well as for those in Sorell, Tasman and Glamorgan Spring Bay.
He said these upgrades will ease the south-east traffic corridor congestion when completed.
“With the Hobart Airport roundabout works underway, this additional government funding for the dual causeways will, in the long term, reduce travel time for many of our Clarence residents and those who live in the south-east region,” he said.
“Traffic congestion along the south-east corridor has been felt for years, resulting in negative community impacts including lost time and productivity, freight delays, loss of public transport efficiencies and general frustration and anxiety for drivers.
“Not only will this funding provide crucial assistance in the delivery of the South-East Traffic solution, but it will also create additional jobs and provide some much-needed stimulus to our local economy during this unprecedented time.
“We look forward to working with the Australian and Tasmanian governments to deliver these vital projects for southern Tasmania.”