The first package of works on the Port Hedland Road and Rail Safety improvement project is now complete.
Stage 1 has been officially opened, which includes the construction of a bridge over BHP's rail line at Buttweld Road.
The 34-metre-long bridge was constructed by Highway Construction-Albem Operations Joint Venture as part of the $31.48 million BHP funded Stage 1 works.
Construction of two roundabouts on Powell Road at the intersections of Dalton and Hamilton roads were also completed as part of Stage 1 in June 2022.
Construction has begun on the $76 million second package of works, which has also been awarded to Highway Construction-Albem Operations Joint Venture.
The project involves the realignment of approximately 4.75 kilometres of the Great Northern Highway (north of the Port Hedland International Airport and the Walkabout Village), including the construction of new access roads due to the realignment.
A second bridge over the BHP rail line will also be constructed, eliminating the existing level crossing.
This second package of works is jointly funded by the Australian Government ($50.2 million), the Western Australian Government ($12.54 million) and BHP ($13.26 million).
Construction is expected to take just over 12 months, with work estimated to be completed in late-2023, and will be managed by Main Roads WA with support from project partner BHP.
As stated by Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:
"This is an important package of improvements that will bring major safety and economic benefits to Port Hedland.
"The Australian Government is pleased to partner with BHP and the WA Government to support these important upgrades."
As stated by WA Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:
"This project is a fantastic example of governments working closely with industry to deliver better outcomes for the local community, and while we're at the halfway point of this project, it is already delivering improved road safety.
"Removal of these rail crossings will eliminate the risk of accidents, and the need for vehicles to be stuck at rail crossings for long periods of time, whilst long freight trains pass by.
"Our Government has proven time and time again that we are willing to work with local community and industry to deliver benefits and strive for safety in our regional areas."
As stated by State Pilbara MLA Kevin Michel:
"It's fantastic to see this project continue to progress, and that we are already seeing improved safety outcomes for the community.
"I want to commend Main Roads and the contractors for their work to date, and the delivery of this project in our heated construction environment."
As stated by BHP General Manager for Rail Operations Warren Wellbeloved:
"There is nothing more important to BHP than the safety of our people and the community.
"BHP's continued investment in this project will improve safety at our level rail crossings and provide jobs through the construction period while allowing travel around Port Hedland to become quicker and more efficient.
"We're proud to work alongside the State and Federal Governments and Main Roads to deliver this important safety initiative."
