The Madagascan Government has signed a memorandum of understanding to work with mining company Platinum Works to upgrade 200km of road in support of the extraction of minerals such as sapphires. The project involves widening and paving the existing road between Toliary and Ilakaka as well as improving the alignment and building bypasses and bridges. Estimated costs are between US$200,000 and US$1.5 million per kilometer depending on what the section involves. The first phase, starting in January, entails constructing a series of Acrow bridges. Phase two will start in March and take up to 10 years. Benefits will include improved transport for equipment, reduced journey times, increased safety and easier access the Isalo National Park to promote tourism.