4246 Investment Strategy 06 10/7/06 9:17 AM Page 1

Tasmanian Transport Infrastructure Investment Strategy

DEPARTMENT of INFRASTRUCTURE, ENERGY and RESOURCES 2006/07 4246 Investment Strategy 06 10/7/06 9:17 AM Page 2

Prepared by

Department of Infrastructure, Energy and Resources 10 Murray Street, TAS 7000

Front cover photo: Kingston 4246 Investment Strategy 06 10/7/06 9:17 AM Page 3

Tasmanian Transport Infrastructure Investment Strategy 2006/07 DEPARTMENT of INFRASTRUCTURE, ENERGY and RESOURCES

This document is prepared by Transport Infrastructure Branch Roads and Public Transport Division The Department of Infrastructure, Energy and Resources (DIER) manages 's principal road network on behalf of the Tasmanian Government. Following the announcement of the Tasmanian rail funding package in the first quarter of 2006, the rail network has been added to the State’s managed infrastructure assets. This transport network, which has a replacement value of more than $4 billion (June 2005) for the road component and Transport infrastructure provides the essential links between the population centres of approximately $1 billion (preliminary estimate) for the rail component, caters for practically all Tasmania and to the rest of and other countries through its road system, seaports of Tasmania’s land freight task and most of the interregional communication. It is the and airports. As such, the infrastructure is critical to the community’s economic and social backbone of the State's transport sector linking to the local road network, railheads, seaports, well-being by providing the crucial links for physical communication, industry, services, and airports. The road component includes some 3,650 kilometres of roads and more than tourism and trade. Road and rail corridors provide the connectivity to the seaports and 1,280 bridges and other significant structures. The rail component comprises approximately airports which are so vital for national and international trade and tourism. 700 kilometres of permanent way and structures.

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contents

Minister’s Foreword ...... 5

Executive Summary ...... 6

Strategic Context for Tasmania’s Transport Infrastructure ...... 8 The Tasmanian State Road Hierarchy...... 9 AusLink Corridor...... 10 Regional Integrated Transport Plans and Council Partnerships ...... 11 Consultation with Stakeholders...... 11 Tasmanian Road Safety Strategy and the Safer Roads Program...... 11 Cyclists and Pedestrians...... 12 Strategic Asset Management Plan for State Roads...... 12 Road Asset Management Plan for State Roads...... 12 Bridge Asset Management Plan for State Roads...... 13 Environmental Policy for Transport Activities ...... 13 Australian Government Funding Commitments...... 14 AusLink ...... 14 Rail Infrastructure...... 15

Demand Drivers and Emerging Issues ...... 16 Vision and Strategies for State Roads ...... 17 Forward Program Priorities (2006/07 to 2010/11)...... 19 Sustainable Maintenance ...... 19 Better Roads Program ...... 19 2006-2007 Transport Infrastructure Investment ...... 20 Five Year Forward Program for Transport Infrastructure Investment ...... 21

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minister’s foreword

Tasmania’s transport system faces significant challenges over the coming decades. In recent years Under the Special Capital Investment Funds these programs will receive almost $19 million in Tasmania has experienced record growth in the economy, jobs, population, tourism and capital 2006/07. A further $66 million will be provided by the State Government for road infrastructure under investment. A growing freight task, the continued expansion of industry and tourism and competitive the Capital Investment Program. This provides both certainty and opportunity for infrastructure international and national markets is placing pressure on Tasmania’s transport network and investment in Tasmania. infrastructure assets. The provision of efficient and safe access and mobility for Tasmanians is essential. Given the decentralised nature of the State, planning for and meeting Tasmanian’s access The Australian Government's AusLink - National Land Transport Plan - was released in 2004. and mobility requirements will present significant challenges. This introduces a new strategic framework for the planning and funding of Australia’s roads and The national freight task is forecast to double from 2005 to 2020 with trends for Tasmania indicating railways to meet long term economic and social needs. The current funding program is set out to 2009 even higher growth of up to a trebling of the freight task over this period. This reflects the State’s when the next five year funding cycle will apply. Projects for this next round of funding will be drawn higher economic and industrial growth rates, increasing dispersion of forestry activity associated with from the Melbourne to Hobart via Burnie, Devonport and Launceston/Bell Bay corridor study which plantations, increased mining activity and an increased activity in the northern ports. will be undertaken in the 2006/07 financial year.

Significant pressure is being placed on urban roads with strong traffic growth. If current growth rates This study will consider the strategic road, rail and intermodal needs of the corridor. The corridor study are maintained over the next 10 years traffic volumes are forecast to be 20 to 25% higher than current will be aimed at providing a long term strategic planning and outcome to improve and align the levels. Tasmanian transport system with the needs of industry and the freight flows into and out of Tasmania.

Growth and development in the developing urban areas of the municipalities of Kingborough, The State Government is committed to a progressive transport infrastructure program to meet the Brighton, Sorell and Clarence is generating increased traffic volumes along core arterial roads, such as challenges ahead. the Southern Outlet , , and the . The current stocks of urban residential zoned land when fully developed in these areas will add significantly to the traffic demand on the network. It is vital for State and Local Government to work together to meet the challenges ahead.

With increasing tourism, passenger travel into Tasmania is at historically high levels. The introduction of low-cost airlines has provided low cost access and raised seat capacity to record levels. The two super-fast ferries between Devonport and Melbourne have significantly increased passenger and freight capacity across . This increase in tourism in the State has placed an extra 110,000 vehicles on the State’s roads. The mix of tourist traffic with increasing road freight traffic is an increasingly important issue. The State Government recognises the need for a transport system that can provide the following transport outcomes: • Planned and developed to respond to the challenges of the State’s economic growth. • Integrated and coordinated across all modes of transport. • Maintained and managed in a sustainable manner for the long term. • Managed to comply with all legislative requirements. Jim Cox The State Government is committed to building on the gains achieved in earlier years through the Minister for Infrastructure Economic and Social Infrastructure Fund, and the Better Roads Fund which commenced in 2005.

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executive summary

The Tasmanian Transport Infrastructure Investment Strategy demonstrates the Tasmanian State Road Network Government’s infrastructure investment priorities and details the main projects to be undertaken in DIER has adopted a maintenance-first policy for the management and development of the State road 2006-07 and planned to be undertaken in its five year forward works program. network. This ensures that funds are directed to the sustainable maintenance of the road network before consideration is given to developing and increasing the asset base. This strategy targets key investment imperatives on Tasmania’s transport network. These investments will facilitate more efficient and effective transport services that support the continuing development of The development of the State road network is focused on implementing projects that deliver the the Tasmanian economy. In particular, it supports economic growth, social well-being, environmental highest return to the State and its community in moving people and freight and improving safety. sustainability and the Tasmanian lifestyle. The strategy, which is based on a State-wide infrastructure All projects are evaluated and systematically prioritised using a range of transport, development, planning approach, strengthens the Department of Infrastructure, Energy and Resources (DIER) planning and statistical data and information. capacity to anticipate infrastructure requirements to support economic and industry development in the State. Projects are identified across a broad range of needs, including regional and urban mobility, forestry and industry freight movements and tourism. The Tasmanian Transport Infrastructure Investment Strategy aims to deliver land transport outcomes based on a whole of transport approach across all modes; road, rail, sea and air. The State Government is committed to a five-year forward program of works (2006/07 to 2010/11) that supports the economic development of Tasmania. The program, which ensures the long-term viability The State Infrastructure Planning System (SIPS) is a key analytical and decision support tool and and integrity of the State road network, delivers: together with the three integrated regional transport plans is a key resource in developing this strategy. • A sustainable level of maintenance; The Department of infrastructure, Energy and Resources (DIER) has direct involvement in the • Improved safety performance; and regulation of road use, and the management of the Classified State Road Network and the Rail • Targeted development of the road network. permanent way. The 2006/07 Capital Investment Program will deliver funding of $129 million; almost $44 million from the Australian Government and $85 million from the Tasmanian Government. This represents an Tasmania’s Ports increase in funding of more than $34 million on the 2005/06 Capital Investment Program. The merging of Tasmania’s Ports is delivering an integrated single company structured and capable of The Australian Government investment includes $34 million for infrastructure development, $5.5 meeting the operational and efficiency challenges required in an ever-changing international and million for infrastructure maintenance and $2 million for road safety and traffic management. domestic shipping market. The State Government investment of $85 million is made up of $66 million from the consolidated fund appropriation for a range of programs including infrastructure maintenance, infrastructure State Rail System development, safer roads, and traffic management. The remaining $19 million is from the Special The rail system remains integral to the efficient movement of freight in Tasmania. The State Capital Investment Funds Program with $11.4 million allocated to projects under the Better Roads Government has recognised the strategic importance of the rail network, in particular, its linkages to Program and $7.6 million from the Economic and Social Infrastructure Fund. the four major seaports and has agreed to a funding package with the Australian Government and the rail owner designed to improve the operational integrity of the Tasmanian rail system. Consistent with the State Government’s strategy for the Tasmanian State road network, this year marks the second year of the Better Roads Program. The priority of this three year program is to Ongoing negotiations with both the Australian Government and Pacific National Tasmania include address safety issues associated with the interaction of heavy vehicles and a range of tourist traffic on sections of road that carry a high proportion of both freight and tourist traffic. The State opportunities for improved inter-modal facilities to further improve freight efficiency. Government’s commitment to this program is $25 million over three years. Key projects in the Better Roads Program are a range of road improvement projects on the Bass Highway at Sisters Hills, shoulder sealing and minor curve realignment to the Bridport Main Road, overtaking lanes, shoulder widening and curve realignments in the West Tamar corridor and the shoulder widening and sealing project on the Port Sorell Main Road which was completed in December 2005.

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executive summary

Infrastructure Investment Highlights 2005/06: • Shoulder widening and sealing on the between Orford and Triabunna; • Pavement strengthening and shoulder sealing along a section of the Bridport Main Road between The following projects illustrate the State Government’s achievements in 2005/06 in maintaining and Nourses Road and Emily Street junctions; developing the State Road Network. • Completion of pavement strengthening, seal widening and minor geometrical improvements to a • Completion of the upgrade to a of a section of the section of the Esk Main Road extending east of Killymoon Bridge; between Cormiston Creek and Acropolis Drive; • Completion of pavement strengthening and widening and high priority safety improvements on • Completion of Stage 1 of the upgrade to a dual carriageway of a section of the Bass Highway the Glen Huon Main Road; between Penguin and Ulverstone; • Completion of pavement strengthening and resurfacing of the between • Completion of the junction upgrade at Eastland Drive, East Ulverstone; Charles Street Bridge and the Mayne Street Overpass in Launceston; • Completion of construction of a new southbound off-ramp to the from the • Completion of Stage 2 of pavement strengthening works on the Mud Walls Secondary Road; Southern Outlet Highway at the , a southbound on-ramp to the Channel • Completion of the NETAS project for the western approaches to Scottsdale – Stage 1; Highway and a new Hobart bound on-ramp from Beach Road; • Completion of pavement repairs on the Forth Main Road; • Completion of shoulder widening and sealing on the Port Sorell Main Road; • Asphalt correction and overlays and other resurfacing works on the between Granton and ; • Completion of a range of safety projects across the State including black spot, traffic management and other road safety works; • Pavement resurfacing across all regions of the State, including works under the Better Roads Program on high trafficked urban routes; • Improved pavement delineation with edge lines and reflectors at selected sites. • Replacement of the deck on the bridge across the Arthur ; • Maintenance of critical bridges and structures across the State; • Lead paint removal from structures; • Continuation of a program of upgrading directional signs at key junctions on touring routes across the State; • Commencement of road improvement projects on the Bass Highway at Sisters Hills; • Commencement of the replacement of the bridges on the West Tamar Highway; • Commencement of pavement strengthening and shoulder sealing on the between Cradle Mountain Developmental Road and Shorts Road; • Pre-construction work on the Bass Highway between Penguin and Ulverstone – Stage 2; and • Pre-construction work for the project to replace the Maclaines Creek Bridge at Triabunna together with improvements to the adjacent Vicary Street junction.

Photo: opening of Penguin to Ulverstone Stage 1

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strategic context - for tasmania’s transport infrastructure

Key Drivers The Transport Infrastructure Investment Strategy brings together the key elements of the strategic documents, the planning and data analysis and other driving influences. It outlines how the Tasmanian The State Government recognises the need to invest additional funds in transport infrastructure which Government will invest in the State’s transport infrastructure to achieve Tasmania’s long-term is so vital to Tasmania’s well-being in terms of its social structures and lifestyles, road safety and infrastructure goals. economic growth. Over the next 25 years the priorities for transport investment are expected to relate to the following issues and challenges: Planning and analysis is undertaken continuously to monitor the State’s transport task and identify • Sustainable maintenance expenditure on all land transport infrastructure; emerging issues, infrastructure limitations and opportunities. As Tasmania’s road system forms the • AusLink – supporting the new national transport funding regime; backbone of Tasmania’s freight task, this work provides an improved capacity for policy and planning decision making, particularly with regard to infrastructure provision. • Increasing heavy road freight demand; • Efficiency of inter-modal freight movements; There are many components of the transport infrastructure network for which high level strategies, • New downstream processing industries in agricultural, mining and forestry sectors; programs, plans or other initiatives have been developed. These include: • Changing forestry operations, with increased forestry harvesting from plantation areas; • Tasmania Road Safety Strategy; • Tourism industry growth and increased visitor numbers on roads between tourism clusters; and • Safer Roads Program; • Seamless and reliable inter-modal transport infrastructure; • Regional Integrated Transport Plans; • Urban growth and population re-distribution. • Local Government Partnership Agreements; • Ageing population. • The Strategic Asset Management Plan for State Roads, which incorporates The Road Asset Management Plan (Draft) and The Bridge Asset Management Plan; • Public transport infrastructure. • AusLink National Land Transport Plan; Transport investment priorities are determined by assessing the relative merits of projects against a • AusLink Corridor Study – Tasmania (to commence August 2006); series of economic, social and process related criteria. These include: • Specific road and rail corridor studies, and; • Targeting wealth-generating industries. • Environmental Policy for Transport Activities. • Seamless connectivity and system-wide productivity Improvements. • Efficient and cost-effective provision of infrastructure and services. • Protecting strategic infrastructure. • Safety. • Sustainable job creation. • Accessibility in sustainable urban systems. • Environmental responsibility.

Photo: Increasing heavy freight demand

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strategic context - for tasmania’s transport infrastructure

The Tasmanian State Road Hierarchy King

219 1 The road hierarchy is based on the connectivity needs at a State level for major corridors between A Island A2014 regions, cities, major towns, industrial hubs, air and sea ports and rural catchments. The hierarchy

A1219 ROAD CATEGORIES Flinders reflects road usage by passenger vehicles and freight transport and the connectivity requirements to as at 26/08/2003 Island

support the development of regional communities, tourism, commerce, industry and business. A1565 1 2 Regional Freight Road 3 Regional Access Road The classification of roads by function assists DIER with ongoing transport system management by 4 Feeder Road ensuring that the planned function and use of roads is clarified across the whole of a network. The road 5 Other Road hierarchy provides a number of economic and social benefits including: • Strategic investment: increasing the rate of return from investment by concentrating on corridors A0359 that provide the greatest community benefit; Stanley Smithton

• Land Use Planning: Ensuring that industry, commercial and residential developments are Marrawah 9 4 A02 Gladstone Wynyard Bridport A0249 supported by and integrated with the State’s transport network; A2849 A1329 A1400 A1581 1507 400 A Burnie A1 A1730 A2 Scottsdale 5 Devonport 1 • Road Standards: ensuring road standards are directly related to planned use and function; and 0 A0278 263 1 A1552 A A0265 Branxholm 485 A1358 A0113 A0 A1497 A0113 A2810 A1536 A A1086 104 A1073 • Road Safety: reducing the risk of crashes by minimising and controlling the number of access 4 A2564 St Helens A1688 A025 A1109 A1251 A0249 2

17 A2603 031 1 A16 1 0 points and therefore potential conflicts on major routes. A 7 A LAUNCESTON 1811 A1112

A2674 A1 A2577 A2025 A1125 A1374 A0249 St Marys A A2616 A2085 1 7 3 4 2 Deloraine 8 A2577 A1662 3 1125 A2 A A1468 Fingal Corinna A The Road Hierarchy defines five categories of roads: A2658 008 7 0 A A0485 0 264 1 5 2 A Poatina Melba 4 Conara 0 Bicheno Siding 6 Category 1 - Trunk Roads are the major highways interconnecting Tasmania and are crucial to the A 1 0 A 472 14 17 Campbell Town A A1442 functioning of Tasmanian industry, commerce and society; A0113 A2632 A1633 A0197 A2580 2443 A0197 A 7 Derwent Bridge 8 0 0 Swansea Category 2 - Regional Freight Roads are Tasmania’s regional roads for carrying freight; A2 A 10

Queenstown 0 Strahan Tarraleah A Category 3 - Regional Access Roads are the main access roads to Tasmania’s regions, but carry less 1138 A 0 heavy freight traffic than Regional Freight Roads; 197 Bothwell A2535 Ouse A229 Triabunna A2894 Hamilton 0 A0113 A1 Category 4 - Feeder Roads allow good accessibility between towns of more than 1,000 people and 691 Orford A2182 A00909 A1727 A228

A2218 A1154 between major tourist destinations; and Strathgordon A01 A1727 9 Sorell 7 A1675 A0498

113 A0142 Category 5 - Other Roads, which are the remainder of the State Roads. A0 A0142 HOBARTA0171 A0029 A2069 A0168 A2072 A1167 A0126 A1196 A1183 A1578

Categorisation is based on: A0155 8 A1620 A0168 24 A2043 A1 Port Arthur • Measured use (ie: road count data and data gathered by surveys, particularly freight traffic A2179 A0168 A1646 categorisation influences) A1206 A1222 A2522

• Current and planned function (ie: for example, the role in connecting regions, towns, cities, ports Southport and airports) • Trends (ie: for example, projected growth of population centres and changes in road counts over time) • Strategy, (ie: choosing the preferred route between roads that duplicate each other). Map: The Tasmanian State Road Hierarchy

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strategic context - for tasmania’s transport infrastructure

AusLink Corridor: A New Policy Partnership with the • Identify existing deficiencies affecting the road and rail links in the network, and outline strategies to address these. Solutions to existing improvement areas can include additional investment in Australian Government infrastructure as well as other strategies such as demand management; • Examine scenarios using projections of possible future demand and traffic volumes, outline AusLink is the Australian Government’s key policy program for transport planning and funding. It is strategies for improving the corridor so that future needs are met, and that the effectiveness and based on a National Land Transport Plan and other core components, operating on a rolling five-year safety of the corridor are maintained and improved; basis. Key AusLink objectives seek to enhance the efficiency, integration and safety of the National Network: • Seek input from stakeholders in industry and the community; and • Twenty-four major transport corridors have been identified across Australia, which together make • Establish corridor objectives and strategic planning and investment priorities. up the National Network, including both road and rail modes in each corridor where applicable; The Tasmanian corridor study, which commences in August 2006, with a completion schedule of six • Each State is responsible for developing a forward-looking corridor strategy for each of their months, will be a pivotal document outlining the case for Tasmania’s transport system. transport corridors, in partnership with the Federal Department of Transport and Regional Services (DoTaRS); • Efficiency and connectivity within and between corridors are to be emphasised in each corridor study by seeking solutions for existing deficiencies in the transport network and finding ways to better integrate and optimise the use of road and rail modes.

AusLink seeks to be multi-modal in focus, rather than focusing on different modes of transport in isolation. Currently, the main focus of AusLink is on land transport, but this should be expanded in the future. AusLink is the Australian Government’s single most important means of determining its future funding of Australia’s transport system.

In Tasmania, the identified AusLink corridor is made up of three major highways and three lines of the State’s rail network, linking together four major ports and sites that are pivotal to the Tasmanian economy. The corridor extends from Burnie to Hobart via Launceston, and also includes the road and rail links to Bell Bay, Tasmania’s highest volume port.

As part of the AusLink process, Tasmania will produce a corridor strategy identifying improvement areas and other factors in the State’s transport network. The corridor strategy will: • Outline the profile, role, functions and performance of the corridor, and examine the roles of different modes of transport. The corridor strategy will also seek to identify ways to enhance the integration of road and rail modes and improve the connectivity of the corridor to Tasmania’s broader transport network, including interstate links;

Photo: Midland Highway, Powranna railway underpass

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strategic context - for tasmania’s transport infrastructure

Regional Integrated Transport Plans & Local Government Partnerships There are competing priorities across the State transport network and it is recognised that not all demands can be met. A key challenge for DIER is to assist stakeholders in understanding the real In partnership with Local Government, the Tasmanian Government is involved in the preparation of transport issues before considering any appropriate projects that may address those issues. three Regional Integrated Transport Plans • The Northern Integrated Transport Plan was developed in conjunction with the Northern Tasmanian Regional Development Board and has been completed (2004). Tasmanian Road Safety Strategy and the Safer Roads Program • The Draft Cradle Coast Integrated Transport Strategy was developed in conjunction with The Tasmanian Road Safety Strategy 2002/06 sets the strategic direction for road safety in Tasmania. the Cradle Coast Authority, and the final plan is expected to be released in 2006. The Strategy has three key objectives: • The Southern Integrated Transport Plan is being developed in conjunction with the • Safer road users; Southern Tasmanian Councils Board and member local governments. A draft plan is • Safer vehicles; and expected to be released for public comment towards the end of 2006. • Safer roads. The Plans address key regional transport issues within a statewide context, providing a The Strategy contains many separate initiatives designed to achieve these objectives. It is based on strategic framework for regional transport and infrastructure planning and investment over national and international research and best practice in road safety. Major road safety initiatives the longer term. Each Plan: implemented as a result of the 2002/06 Strategy include: • examines whole of transport system issues, rather than focusing on a single element or • introduction of compulsory carriage of licence; mode of transport; • automatic loss of licence for driving at excessive speed; • develops principles to inform strategic investment decisions across transport modes; • enhanced licensing process for novice learner drivers; • focuses on improving integration of land use and transport planning to provide a more diverse range of solutions to issues; and • reduced urban speed limit of 50km/h; • a review of penalties for the non-use of seatbelts; • identifies strategies that address key regional needs and facilitate economic and social development. • implementation of a Tasmanian safer roads program to address black spots on Tasmanian roads; and • stage one of reforms of the review of Speed Zoning. The Tasmanian Government also enters into Partnership Agreements with individual local governments. In many cases these Agreements have transport and infrastructure components, which The 2002/06 Strategy is now nearing the end of its 5-year life. Work has commenced to develop a are considered in the project prioritisation process and development of forward programs. Tasmanian Road Safety Strategy for the next 5 years, 2007 to 2011. The development of the Road Safety Strategy 2007/11 will be based on analysis of Tasmanian crash data, consideration of the achievements of the 2002/06 Strategy, research and best practice in road safety and significant community Consultation with Stakeholders consultation. Engineering improvements can provide some of the most cost effective safety measures. Under this Consultation with stakeholders, including representative bodies on policy matters, Councils and strategy, application of and adherence to current standards and practices becomes paramount in road individuals directly impacted is facilitated through a range of methods to assist in project identification, infrastructure design and management processes. development and implementation. The Safer Roads Program, in the main, targets locations with a high rate or high risk of injury road DIER recognises that a number of community groups form from time to time to pursue improvements crashes. Systematic analysis of the crash database and a program of road safety reviews and audits are on particular infrastructure or on infrastructure within discrete regions of the State. DIER assists these utilised to ensure identification of and action about both high priority actual and potential “black groups where possible and provides data and information on the infrastructure where practicable. It is spots”. The practices of safety reviewing and auditing are integrated into the road infrastructure design, acknowledged that there are many transport issues of concern to various communities. construction and management processes.

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Cyclists and Pedestrians Road Asset Management Plan for State Roads Where there is a demonstrated need, DIER provides for cyclists and pedestrians within the design of new roadworks and road improvement projects. The Road Asset Management Plan (RAMP), to be released later in 2006, will encapsulate the various issues, criteria and policies that influence decision-making for the better management of our road Pedestrian crossings (and associated facilities) at schools and other locations are provided where there network. The RAMP sets out the Department’s commitments and strategies that are to be adopted for is a warrant for such facilities. Where possible, crossings are integrated with path and cycle networks the planning of maintenance works and services directed at ensuring continuing road function, high owned and operated by local councils. levels of service and delivery of the Government’s transport vision. The total replacement value of the roads and bridges asset is presently estimated at around $4 billion Strategic Asset Management Plan for State Roads and represents a major infrastructure investment for the Tasmanian Government. The Department of Infrastructure, Energy and Resources is responsible for the effective planning and management of the The Strategic Asset Management Plan (SAMP), for the management of the State’s road transport network and currently spends some $50m each year on maintaining this critical asset. This includes infrastructure, was released in July 2005. This over-arching document sets out the fundamental AusLink maintenance funding and the Special Capital Investment Funds. Through DIER, the State strategies and principles for the effective management of the State road network to ensure that each Government is committed to providing a transport system that is: road category delivers its intended level of service and retains a high level of functionality. The SAMP is supported by the Road Asset Management Plan (RAMP) and the Bridge Asset Management Plan • Safe (BAMP). These two documents provide more detailed strategic information for the management of the • Efficient State roads and bridges infrastructure. • Accessible • Reliable The Strategic Asset Management Plan ensures that: • Sustainable • The road network is maintained in a safe and operational condition; The RAMP provides detailed information, direction and management strategies for the funding and • Asset integrity is preserved at a level that minimises financial liability for future generations delivery of maintenance works and services that will provide the Tasmanian community with a safe and through balancing asset consumption with appropriate programs of asset maintenance and effective road infrastructure. replacement; and • Road links provide the connectivity for existing and future industry and community needs by minimising the imposition of load limits on roads and bridges.

The plan identifies the demand drivers, sets out the levels of service for each class of asset and provides a high-level forecast of the future maintenance and replacement priorities and consequent funding requirements.

The Strategic Asset Management Plan is DIER’s key tool in underpinning its maintenance first policy.

Photo: Golconda Road, NETAS Stage 1, providing for future industry and community needs.

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Bridge Asset Management Plan for State Roads

The Bridge Asset Management Plan (BAMP), released in July 2005, sets the framework for the strategic management of the 1280-plus bridge structures vested in the DIER. The estimated replacement value of this important asset is $1.2 billion. Because of their significant heritage value, high replacement cost or technical complexity, 30 bridges on council roads are also included in the listing. Some of these bridges are registered on the National Estate.

As the bridges are a critical component of the Tasmanian road network, their effective management is vital to meeting the immediate and long-term needs of the State’s transport sector. Implementation of the BAMP will: • Provide safe bridges for road users • Enable the transport industry to operate in an efficient manner • Ensure good and timely maintenance practices, thus maximising asset life and integrity • Minimise the Government’s exposure to litigation through nonfeasance • Provide a basis for sustainable funding levels Photo: bridge works complete • Identify appropriate levels of service • Detail the strategies, policies and practices required for the delivery of high-level bridge-asset management objectives

The Bridge Asset Management Plan has identified long-term funding levels across the whole range of bridge-management activities and has prioritised works and services aimed at enhancing the overall Photo: West Tamar Highway, Supply River bridge works underway infrastructure performance levels through a program of bridge replacements and strengthening, for the progressive removal of load limits.

Environmental Policy for Transport Activities

The Department of Infrastructure, Energy and Resources has an environmental policy for transport activities to achieve contemporary community environmental goals and meet appropriate national and global environmental standards.

This policy facilitates practical steps towards sustainable development of the transport system, to support community efforts and to ensure conformity with relevant State and Australian Government legislation.

Best practice is incorporated in the development of transport projects. High priority botanical sites have been identified across the state. DIER also contributes to State weed management strategy as it relates to transport corridors.

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Australian Government Funding Commitments

AUSLINK

The Australian Government provides funding for parts of the State transport network under the AusLink program. It also provides funding under the Australian Government Black Spot Program, which can apply to sites on both local and State road networks.

The Australian Government’s AusLink National Land Transport Plan is designed to meet future challenges.

The AusLink National Land Transport Network in Tasmania includes the following transport corridors (road, rail etc.): • Hobart to Launceston; • Launceston to Bell Bay; and • Launceston to Burnie. Photo: Safety at Cutts Road junction, on the Bass Highway at Don Hill, is to be improved with funding from AusLink. Key outcomes include: • An Australian Government commitment to allocate $43.7 million in 2006/07 across the Photo: Resurfacing works on the Brooker Highway. Tasmanian State Road Network including: - $26.6 million from the AusLink Investment Program; - $9.7 million from the AusLink Strategic Regional Program – These projects include the work on the Bass Highway at Sisters Hills, further shoulder sealing and curve realignments on a section of the Bridport Main Road between Bridport and Scottsdale and improvement works on the Tasman Highway between Nunamara and Targa. These works are funded on a $ for $ basis with the Tasmanian Government; - $4.9 million for improving the East Tamar Highway – This is part of a $60 million package for investment projects on the East Tamar Highway AusLink corridor to be expended through to 2009/10; and - $2.0 million from the National Black Spot Program (includes a carryover component). The Australian Government commitment to this annual Program is current until 2007/08. The level of funding allows the treatment of around twenty to twenty-five sites a year on all roads across Tasmania;

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• The Tasmanian Government is preparing an alternative project proposal to the Bridgewater Bridge replacement project - the Hobart Northern Approaches project. The Australian Government is maintaining its funding allocation for a new Bridgewater Bridge, while allowing the Tasmanian Government to bring forward this alternative proposal, for its consideration, for the northern approaches to Hobart.

Along with other States and Territories, the Tasmanian Government has recognised the need for improvement in the way that National road funding is allocated. However, there are a range of concepts in the AusLink proposal that remain undeveloped and uncertain and which may pose a risk to road funding in Tasmania in the longer term.

As part of the former RONI program, the Australian Government committed $10 million on a dollar for dollar basis with the Tasmanian Government to fund works improving access to North Eastern Tasmania. Work on this project commenced during 2003/04 and federal funding on the project is expected to be fully expended during 2006/07.

Rail Infrastructure

Following the agreement of the Australian Government, the Tasmanian Government and Pacific National a funding package will be provided to ensure that the rail system continues to operate. Photo: Bass Highway, Sisters Hills The Australian Government has agreed to commit $78 million to the funding package. The State Government will provide some $4 million annually, for ten years, to cover track maintenance and Pacific National some $38 million for rolling stock.

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demand drivers and emerging issues

Transport systems are built and maintained to support Tasmania’s society and economy with safe, Increased forestry harvesting from plantation areas efficient, effective and accessible transport. The State transport network needs to be designed and Many new plantation areas are not serviced by the traditional forestry road network. These changes maintained to adequately serve the long-term demands for the safe movement of people and freight. provide the opportunity to improve the forestry freight network to provide public benefits and reduced Understanding and responding to industry, community needs and environmental requirements industry costs. contributes to Tasmania’s economic growth and regional development.

Increasing heavy road freight demand Tourism industry growth and increased visitor numbers between tourism clusters Tasmania’s tourism industry is experiencing significant growth. The Tourism Development Framework Between 1998 and 2002 the total tonnes per kilometre on road and rail in Tasmania increased by 8% provides the strategic context for the industry and infrastructure development in Tasmania. Key per annum. If this rate of growth continues, Tasmania’s freight task will double in under a decade. This elements are clusters, or areas, with a critical mass of visitor attractions; and Touring Routes which is significantly higher than other parts of Australia and will present real demands on the State’s provide the key routes between clusters. transport network both in terms of maintenance and capacity. Planned tourism-related developments will generate further demand for improved transport Sustainable maintenance expenditure on all land transport infrastructure infrastructure, new road access arrangements and traffic management facilities. Transport investments are required to improve the visitor experience, orientation and safety on the Touring Routes and to Increased freight volumes will require a strategic approach to the provision of freight routes. State and capitalise on the cluster areas, including the iconic Freycinet, Cradle Mountain, Port Arthur and local government roads and the rail network currently have insufficient maintenance funding to sustain Strahan. optimum service levels. A strategy to arrest the predicted trailing liability from new capital investment projects will need to be recognised in future Capital Investment Programs over time. Urban growth and population re-distribution Seamless and reliable inter-modal transport infrastructure Growth and urban re-distribution is affecting a number of areas in Tasmania and pressures are increasing to cater for increased commuter flows and a reduction in peak period impacts. Transport Many of Tasmania’s export industries and business enterprises are reliant on a combination of road, infrastructure improvements are only part of the solution in addressing this issue. It is recognised that rail and shipping as part of their distribution networks. One of Tasmania’s most important transport new infrastructure is often consumed quickly and that an approach that uses a range of infrastructure reforms occurred on 1 January 2006 with the amalgamation of the State’s four ports into one single and non-infrastructure interventions is more effective. corporate entity. The formation of the Tasmanian Ports Corporation, TasPorts, brings all of the State’s major port operations under the control of a single body for the first time. This will facilitate Statewide strategic management of Tasmania’s port sector. A stronger position regarding the functions of the individual ports creates the opportunity to improve connecting road and rail infrastructure in terms of a more efficient and effective transport logistics chain.

New downstream processing industries in agricultural, mining and forestry sectors Over the next 25 years it is expected that several major resource processing activities will commence operations in Tasmania. Capitalising on the existing transport networks will occur, however, modification and augmenting of existing elements of road and rail networks will also be needed.

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demand drivers and emerging issues

Vision Strategy 3

Roads that enhance Tasmania’s development, lifestyle, environment and Minimise the cost of freight transport by: community well-being. • Strengthening and upgrading structures on strategic road freight routes; • Reducing the costs of road maintenance by increasing the freight task undertaken by rail; Strategy 1 • Investing in infrastructure to improve the safety and efficiency of important freight routes; • Investing in inter-modal terminal facilities; and Manage State road and bridge assets to ensure safe operation, minimise future • Facilitating the provision and enhancement of inter-modal hubs including road, rail, ports and airports. financial liability, minimise load limits and optimise connectivity by: • Ensuring that the road hierarchy classifications and targets are appropriate for the level of use and mix of traffic using the roads; and Strategy 4 • Ensuring that maintenance and investment decisions are made on a rational and consistent basis throughout Tasmania. Enhance the tourist experience on Tasmanian State roads by: • Developing a strategic approach to roads identified in the tourist development framework of the Strategy 2 Tasmanian Government’s Tourism 21; • Developing and upgrading strategic roads forming part of Tasmania’s touring routes; Reduce the incidence and severity of road crashes on State roads by: • Developing and upgrading roadside facilities; • Upgrading directional and tourism signs; and • Implementing the Government’s Road Safety Strategy; • Supporting Local Government in developing tourism precincts through street-scaping. • Delivering high return road safety projects through the Safer Roads Program; • Ensuring road users have a consistent, predictable and more forgiving driving environment; • Implementing road safety improvements identified by road safety audits and safety reviews; • Reducing the incidence and severity of “run off road” incidents; • Investigating improved vehicle/road surface skid resistance characteristics; and • Limiting direct access onto major roads and highways.

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vision and strategies for state roads

Strategy 5 Strategy 7

Manage State roads strategically in a long-term, cost-effective manner on behalf Maximise the environmental value of transport corridors, including flora, fauna of the community to provide best value for money, by: and heritage components by: • Undertaking consultation with the community and business; • Implementing the Department’s Environmental Policy for Transport Activities; • Developing Regional Integrated Transport Plans; • Effectively managing the bio-diversity that exists within road and rail corridors across Tasmania; • Developing partnerships with Local Government; • Identifying and protecting significant cultural and heritage sites within transport corridors; • Undertaking strategic road corridor studies; • Building environmental management systems into infrastructure development and management • Ensuring adequate access to Tasmania’s regions; activities; and • Implementing strategic asset management policies and practices; • Promoting energy efficiency through maintaining the operational integrity and functionality of the road network. • Ensuring the effective implementation of the Road Hierarchy; and • Ensuring strategy and planning for the AusLink Network is supported and adequately funded by the Australian Government. Strategy 8 Strategy 6 Facilitating appropriate development to enhance Tasmania’s economy by: • Encouraging safe, innovative and appropriate transport solutions through the development Facilitate the safe use of cycling and movement of pedestrians on State roads by: approval process in partnership with the Councils and in consultation with proponents. • Integrating pedestrian facilities with footpaths managed by local councils; • Ensuring that cyclists and other non-motorised travellers have appropriate infrastructure available for their use; and • Encouraging cycling and walking where these are appropriate alternatives to car travel.

Photo: Bass Highway, undertaking consultations with the community and business.

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forward program priorities 2006/07 to 2010/11

The State Government is committed to a five-year forward program of road works that supports the In underpinning its commitment to the maintenance of the State road network, the State Government economic development of Tasmania. The program, which ensures the long-term viability and integrity is investing an additional $18 million from the Special Capital Investment Fund over the three financial of the State road network, delivers : years (2004/05, 2005/06 and 2006/07). This is in addition to the $39 million allocation by the State • A sustainable level of maintenance; Government for road and bridge maintenance in 2006/07. The maintenance allocation under the Australian Government’s AusLink Program for 2006/07 is $5.9 million. • Improved safety performance; and • Targeted development of the road network. As from 2005/06 the Department is required to maintain from within the existing Capital Investment Program approximately 90 kilometres of roads on Cape Barren Island under a service agreement with the Aboriginal community and initially amounting to $350,000 per annum. Sustainable Maintenance Transport is an essential part of producing and marketing almost all goods and services. The State road Better Roads Program network is the “backbone” of that system in Tasmania and links all the other parts of the system eg. The State Government is committed to ensuring that all road users can use the State’s road network Local roads, ports, airports and rail terminals. Failure of any part of the road network asset, eg. bridge safely. The Government’s priority for this Program is to address safety issues associated with the or road segment, may produce serious inconvenience or consequences for the transport industry and interaction of heavy vehicles and the range of tourist traffic. the industries they serve and the community. In 2005 the State Government announced a three year program within the State Roads Program to Transport infrastructure assets need to be adequately maintained, so that there is not a significant address sections of road that are both Freight Routes and have a high proportion of Tourist traffic. The financial liability for future generations. Research demonstrates that to enable sustainability the focus of this program, the Better Roads Program, is the provision of adequate pavement width minimum investment needed for a transport infrastructure life cycle of around 40 years is sufficient specifically; on curves where opposing traffic is most risky, with sealed shoulders to allow comfortable funding to enable a combined enhancement and rehabilitation program of a minimum of 2.5% travel and the provision of overtaking opportunities either as wider sealed pavements or as devoted annually of the State road network. Investment at lower levels will inevitably result in a significant overtaking lanes. consumption of the transport infrastructure asset. The State Government is committed to ensure that investment in these assets is maintained so as not to create a liability for future generations. The State Government’s commitment to this program is $25 million over three years which represents a five-fold increase in the funding previously made available under the State’s Safety program for this type of work. A total of $15 million of these funds is earmarked for a number of Principal risks associated with under-resourcing of maintenance are: projects on the Bass Highway at Sisters Hills. This work commenced in 2005/06. A total of $5.15 • Transport would be faced with road and bridge load limits resulting in detours and loss of mass million has been allocated to the West Tamar corridor for overtaking lanes, shoulder widening and limits access. curve realignments. A total of $1.5 million has been allocated for shoulder widening and curve realignments on the Bridport Main Road in 2006/07. • Contingent liability for the future maintenance of road and bridge assets would increase. • Exposure to litigation due to unsafe roads particularly in the light of the removal of the non- In 2005/2006 this program enabled further work involving safety improvements, shoulder widening feasance or Highway rule by the High Court. and sealing on the Port Sorell Main Road. As a result of savings achieved from the use of an • Reduced attractiveness for industry to invest in Tasmania due to a transport system that did not innovative construction technique it was possible to expand the scope of this project to enable the provide adequate connectivity. widening work to encompass all of this road from the town of Port Sorell to the Bass Highway and still achieve the original target date of completion before Christmas 2005. Funding for much of this work was on a dollar for dollar basis with the Australian Government as is the case with the Bass Highway Sisters Hills projects.

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2006/07 - transport infrastructure investment

In 2006/07, the Tasmanian Government will invest $85.5 million in maintaining and improving the Safer Roads Program State road network. This is comprised of $66.5 million from the Capital Investment Program, $7.6 The commitment to this program is continuing as part of the road safety and traffic management million from the Special Capital Investment Fund and $11.4 million from the Better Roads Program. allocation of $3.4 million.

Major infrastructure investment projects for 2006/07 on the State roads from Significant safety improvements will also occur across the broad range of road improvement projects completed in 2006/07. the Capital Investment Program are: • Continuation of road upgrade projects on the Bass Highway from Myalla Road over Sisters Hills to east of Rocky Cape Road; Major construction projects on the AusLink Network include: • Continuation of projects forming part of the NETAS Study; • Continuation of Stage 2 of the upgrade to a dual carriageway of a section of the Bass Highway between Penguin and Ulverstone; • Continuation of pavement reinstatement works on the Esk Main Road, between Rostrevor Rivulet and Tullochgorum Creek; • A number of safety works projects involving junction and Black Spot improvements; • Continuation of pavement strengthening and shoulder sealing on the Murchison Highway • The Australian Government is also contributing to the upgrading of the Lilydale route to between Cradle Mountain Developmental Road and Shorts Road; Scottsdale and the North East through the former Roads of National Importance (RONI) program; and • Pavement reinstatement works on the Poatina Main Road through Cressy Township; • Improvements to the Bass Highway at Sisters Hills (total $15 million) under the AusLink Strategic • Continuation of shoulder sealing and curve realignment works on the Bridport Main Road between Regional Program. Scottsdale & Bridport; A number of the 2006/07 projects will carry over to future years, and in some cases through to • Pavement resurfacing across all regions of the State; and 2009/10. • Maintenance of critical bridges and structures across the State.

Major road and bridge maintenance projects for 2006/07 on State roads from the Special Capital Investments Fund are: • Replacement of the Supply River bridges on the West Tamar Highway; • Replacement of the Maclaines Creek Bridge at Triabunna together with improvements to the Vicary Street junction with the Tasman Highway; • Upgrading of the Little Bridge on the ; • Upgrading of the Franklin Rivulet Bridge on the Frankford Main Road; • Pavement reinstatement works on the Ridgley Highway, north of Ridgley; • Continuation of a program of upgrading directional signs at key junctions across the State and; • Continuation of a program of upgrading signs on all touring routes across the State.

Better Roads Program projects include: • Sisters Hills projects on the Bass Highway; • Shoulder sealing and minor curve realignment on the Bridport Main Road; and Photo: Artists impression of Bass Highway between Penguin and Ulverstone looking west towards Leven River. • Road improvement works for the West Tamar corridor.

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five year forward program for transport infrastructure investment

Other commitments include the following projects: • Continuation of road upgrade projects on the Bass Highway from Myalla Road over Sisters Hills to east of Rocky Cape Road; • Shoulder widening and sealing, installation of overtaking lanes and realignment of sections of the Lyell Highway between Granton and New Norfolk; • Upgrade of the South Arm Road from the Shoreline to the Police Academy; • Critical maintenance works on the East Tamar Highway and the Southern Approaches to Launceston; • Major planning and works on the Brooker Highway; • Upgrade of the Highland Lakes Road between Deloraine and Meander and at Haulage Hill; • Esk Main Road pavement strengthening and widening; • Upgrade of Clives Avenue/ Fouche Avenue junction on the at Old Beach; • Critical maintenance on the Bass Highway between Cutting Road and Oppenheim Road south of Latrobe; Photo: Esk Main Road, commitment to pavement strengthening and widening • $2 million in funding for a State Black Spot Program to implement safety improvements on local roads; • Installation of traffic lights at the Mornington roundabout to improve local road safety and traffic flows during peak periods; Photo: A section of strengthened and widened Esk Main Road • Improvements on Tea Tree Secondary Road; • Junction improvement works on the Illawarra Main Road including at Poatina Main Road and Bishopsbourne Road; • Upgrade of the junction at Batman Highway and Spring Hill Main Road; • Improved traffic management in Sorell; • Improving the flow of traffic from the Southern Outlet along Macquarie Street; • Beginning the process for the development of a Kingston by-pass; and • Providing an additional $1 million for line marking across the State.

The State Government is committed to completing these projects over the next five financial years.

In addition, the Australian Government committed, in its 2006 budget, $60 million under the AusLink Program to the East Tamar Highway corridor. This will result in a number of improvement projects through to 2009/10 on this important link in the AusLink network. These projects are currently being developed and scoped for agreement with the Australian Government.

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notes

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© Tourism Tasmania. All rights reserved. 4246/June06/200/MT 4246 Investment Strategy 06 10/7/06 9:17 AM Page 24

DEPARTMENT of INFRASTRUCTURE, ENERGY and RESOURCES

State Roads Infrastructure Investment Strategy 2006/07