A $37 MILLION contract to reconstruct the Utah Ring Road, providing access to one of the Pilbara’s most important freight hubs at Port Hedland, has been awarded to Melchor Contracting.
The contract, awarded by Pilbara Ports, is to improve safety, reliability and efficiency of the Utah Ring Road at the Utah Bulk Handling Facility, supporting high-volume freight operations.
A state government media release said the project involved the reconstruction of about two kilometres of the existing road at the Utah Bulk Handling Facility, replacing the current asphalt pavement with a high-durability concrete surface designed to support long-term operations.
“The Utah Ring Road plays a vital role in supporting heavy vehicle access and the efficient movement of bulk commodities through the Utah Bulk Handling Facility, located within one of the world's busiest bulk export hubs,” the release said.
Originally constructed to support about 12 million tonnes a year, the road now facilitates approximately 20 million tonnes each year, leading to increased wear over time.
“Reconstructing the road will provide a long-term solution that improves safety outcomes, reduces ongoing maintenance requirements and strengthens the reliability and efficiency of port operations," the release further stated.
The project is expected to take about 18 months to complete, with works to be delivered in stages to ensure the facility remains operational and to minimise disruption to industry.
This project builds on the $32 million upgrade to the 8km Utah Road link completed by Pilbara Ports last year.
Ports minister Stephen Dawson said the contract was an important milestone in upgrading critical infrastructure supporting the WA economy.
"Investing in the Utah Ring Road will improve safety and efficiency at one of the Pilbara's most important freight hubs, ensuring it continues to support growing demand from the resources sector,” Mr Dawson said.
"Importantly, the works will be staged to keep the facility operating and minimise disruption to trade while strengthening the long-term resilience of this key asset."