Major safety improvements are underway for Queensland’s Bruce Highway, with a massive $9 billion upgrade plan kicking off thanks to a joint initiative by the Albanese and Crisafulli governments. This extensive project aims to significantly enhance road safety, reduce congestion, and improve travel times for drivers across Queensland.
Dylan Anderson
Immediate Construction and Improvements
The first stage of this ambitious safety package is already underway, with $300 million immediately allocated for construction and planning. This initial investment will cover 16 vital projects on sections of the highway between Gympie and Innisfail. Key upgrades include:
- Wide centre line treatments between Rungoo and Mourilyan
- Overtaking lanes between Ayr and Brandon
- A new heavy vehicle rest area at Gin Gin
- Essential pavement and culvert strengthening
These initial works target high-risk areas identified through rigorous safety assessments, focusing on making immediate improvements to driver safety and highway reliability.
Planning for Future Improvements
In addition to current construction, another seven critical projects will progress through preconstruction and detailed design stages. This planning phase ensures continuous improvement of the Bruce Highway and strategic management of resources to meet the increasing demands of road users.
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Rockhampton Ring Road Boost
The Australian government has also committed an extra $200 million towards the Rockhampton Ring Road, taking its total investment in this transformative infrastructure project to nearly $1.4 billion. The Ring Road will notably reduce travel times, significantly enhance flood resilience, and open new routes to key community destinations in Central Queensland.
Additional Central Queensland Initiatives
In parallel with the Bruce Highway upgrades, further critical projects are getting a boost, including:
- $38 million for early works on Beef Roads
- $188 million for Gladstone to Rockhampton Bruce Highway upgrades
- $37 million for upgrades on the Capricorn Highway
These investments emphasize the strategic vision for improving road infrastructure across Queensland.
Dylan Anderson
Commitment to Safety and Efficiency
Federal Minister Catherine King emphasized that Queenslanders deserve reliable, safe roads. She affirmed the Albanese government’s commitment to collaborative efforts aimed at transforming the Bruce Highway into a modern, safe transport corridor.
Queensland Minister Brent Mickelberg echoed these sentiments, highlighting the importance of upgrading Queensland's critical road network, including improvements to intersections, bridge widening, rest areas, and flood resilience enhancements.
Early Works and Design Projects Overview
Construction ($200 million):
- Curra Interchange rest area
- Stratford Road widening
- Brooks Road intersection upgrade
- Granite Creek heavy vehicle rest area
- Multiple pavement strengthening projects
Planning ($100 million):
- Wide centreline treatments (various high-risk locations)
- Gin Gin heavy vehicle rest area design
- Priority overtaking lanes
Ensuring a Safer Future
The Bruce Highway Advisory Council will continue to guide investments and prioritise projects. With this comprehensive $9 billion safety package, Queensland is taking significant strides towards a safer, more reliable Bruce Highway that will benefit residents and travellers for decades to come.
Dylan Anderson
Dylan Anderson
