Some of Australia's remotest communities which surround Katherine can look forward to new and improved roads if the Labor Government wins the upcoming federal election.
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An election promise of $173 million has been announced in an attempt to improve safety, boost productivity and deliver more reliable access to communities across the NT.
Roads to communities in the Katherine region make up some of the worst in Australia.
Vehicles often have to navigate prolific potholes and off-road tracks in order to get home, making for longer and more dangerous trips.
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The Phelps River crossing, east from Katherine is expected to see a $10 million upgrade. And the Sandy Creek crossing, west from Katherine is expected to be addressed with $3 million.
The Katherine upgrades are part of a suite of ten major projects intended to improve access to remote communities in Central Australia, the Katherine region and the Top End, while also opening up new opportunities for long term economic development.
The Strategic Roads Package will also put the spotlight on the mango industry, with promises to seal 15 kilometres of dirt roads leading to mango farms and packing sheds in the Top End.
According to a media statement, the improved roads will lift productivity and drive further growth in the Territory's major horticultural sector.
"Over the past few decades, the mango industry has evolved from being based around small hobby farms into a major industry producing a quarter of Australia's total crop, worth nearly $90 million a year," the statement said.
"Labor understands that better, more reliable roads will underpin further development of this important sector, ensuring it can produce more income and more jobs for Territorians."
Labor is also focusing on improving access between remote towns and communities across the Territory, so residents have better access to health, education and community services as well as opportunities for sport and recreation.
"These projects will also support expansion of local business activity and, importantly, improve access for tourists, driving further economic activity across the Territory," the statement said.
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