The Australian government has committed US$110 million for the project and the Tasmanian government has added an additional US$27 million.
Deputy prime minister and minister for infrastructure, transport and regional development Michael McCormack said that preliminary works are expected to start in the coming weeks, with major construction of the first component due to begin in early 2021.
“The duplication of the causeways will deliver two lanes in each direction, with an additional bridge next to McGees Bridge and a 2.5-metre-wide shared pathway,” he said. “When complete, there will be a continuous four-lane highway between Hobart and Sorell.”
Tasmanian minister for infrastructure and transport Michael Ferguson said that environmental investigations, design and community consultation on the duplication of the causeways will progress throughout 2021. Construction is expected to begin in 2023 and be completed in 2025.
