Work is starting on the first set of upgrades in the $9 billion Bruce Highway Safety Package.
In January, the Australian and Queensland Governments committed $7.2 billion and $1.8 billion respectively to fix the Bruce Highway.
They have now announced an initial $300 million in early works and planning for 16 new projects between Gympie and Innisfail to kickstart the project.
These include wide centre line treatments between Rungoo and Mourilyan, overtaking lanes between Ayr and Brandon, a new heavy vehicle rest area in Gin Gin and pavement and culvert strengthening.
Construction will commence immediately.
“Enough is enough, and it’s time to fix this road which is why we’re coming together with the Queensland Government to get it done,” said Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King.
“These projects are in high-risk areas north of Gympie, where conditions are poor and safety upgrades will go a long way.”
The investment builds on the existing funding already committed by the Federal and State Governments to the Bruce Highway.
A further seven projects will progress preconstruction and design activities for future safety works.
Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Brent Mickelberg, said the Government is getting to work with a focus on improving wide centreline treatment, narrow bridges, flood resilience, intersection upgrades and multi-use rest areas.
“The Bruce Highway is the spine of Queensland’s road network and we have worked with the Australian Government to unlock funding and fast-track key safety improvements on priority sections of the highway,” he said.
“Our newly formed Bruce Highway Advisory Council will continue to play a crucial role in advising the Queensland Government on investment priority and sequencing of key upgrades along the Bruce Highway.”
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