The state government has announced plans to construct 15 new passing lanes along the Great Eastern Highway, with the project to cost $48 million.
Transport Minister Dean Nalder said the new passing lanes between Southern Cross and Kalgoorlie-Boulder, would be funded from the Royalties for Regions program and the road trauma trust account.
"There are currently limited opportunities for overtaking between Southern Cross and Kalgoorlie-Boulder," Mr Nalder said.
"This project involves construction of new passing lanes, widening the road seal to nine metres, installation of audible edge lining and the placement of safety barriers where necessary."
Road Safety Minister Liza Harvey said the state government would remain relentless in further reducing road trauma through safer roads, enforcement and education.
"In the five years to the end of 2014 there have been 103 crashes on this section of the highway, with one involving a fatality and 21 resulting in crash victims needing hospital treatment,” she said.
“The new passing lanes will provide safer overtaking opportunities, reducing driver frustration.”
Construction will begin late next year, with completion due in June 2018.
