Works on the $14.9 million upgrade to the Bruce Highway between Hebbards Road and North South Road near Apple Tree Creek in Queensland are soon to begin.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Darren Chester, said the works, which form part of the Bruce Highway — Pavement Widening — Caboolture to St Lawrence Package, were expected to in late 2017, following the contract being awarded to Sunstate Group Qld (SGQ).
“The Australian and Queensland Governments are upgrading the Bruce Highway as part of an $8.5 billion 10-year action plan to save lives, improve flood resilience and boost capacity along the state’s key north-south route. This upgrade will improve the overall safety and efficiency of the highway — a vital link for motorists and heavy freight vehicle operators,” Mr Chester said.
Minister for Main Roads, Road Safety and Ports, Mark Bailey, said the project would include wide centre lines to more safely separate vehicles travelling in opposite directions on the highway.
“Another key feature will be to build protected right and left turning lanes at two intersections — one at Hebbards Road and another at the intersection of North South Road and Kevin Livingston Drive,” Mr Bailey said.
“As well, the North South Road and Kevin Livingston Drive intersection will be realigned further to the west, away from a crest, to improve driver visibility.”
Federal Member for Hinkler, Keith Pitt, said he had lobbied for these safety upgrades on behalf of constituents of Apple Tree Creek.
“This intersection was identified by constituents who called my office to say something needs to be done, and I’m pleased to see that work is due to start in the coming weeks. Improvements to this stretch of the Bruce Highway will mean better access for freight, more jobs and safer conditions for residents, but also motorists who might be travelling for business or recreation,” Mr Pitt said.
An additional 67km of the highway are now rated three out of five stars or better, according to the nationally recognised Australian Road Assessment Program, thanks to investments made under the Bruce Highway Upgrade Program.
The Australian Government has committed up to $86.4 million towards the $107.8 million Bruce Highway Pavement Widening — Caboolture to St Lawrence package, with the Queensland Government providing the remaining $21.4 million.
