The state government has been pressured to find additional funding for a “key component” missing from the Kingston bypass duplication and Algona roundabout upgrade project.
A Parliamentary Standing Committee on Public Works has identified that the currently unfunded pedestrian overpass is “essential” to maximise the $76.42 million project’s benefits.
The overpass would span the new highway and connect to a planned shared use pathway.
While design work for the pedestrian connection has been completed and included in initial plans, the $4 million in funding needed to build it has not.
“The Committee is concerned that without this element, the potential benefits of increased active transport and use of public transport will not be realised,” a report states.
“The Committee therefore strongly recommends the Tasmanian Government commit the additional funding required, so the Channel Highway pedestrian overpass can be constructed as part of the Kingston Bypass Duplication and Algona Road Roundabout Upgrade, as a matter of urgency.”
The report also highlighted other safety issues requiring attention, including the need to clear vegetation currently obstructing visibility at the Channel Highway approach.
Once complete, the new bypass will include two lanes in each direction between the Algona Road Roundabout and the Southern Outlet, along with a new roundabout installed alongside the existing Algona Road roundabout.
According to the Department of State Growth, construction is expected to commence later this year, pending environmental approvals.
Work will take about two years to complete.
