The Federal and Queensland Governments have jointly committed $20 million for detailed planning to upgrade Cunningham Highway.
Critical planning funding is being directed to long-term improvements in two priority areas, used to undertake businesses cases on the Ipswich-Rosewood Road (Amberley) intersection and Ripley Road and Swanbank Road interchanges.
The Federal Government is providing $16 million towards the project, with the Queensland Government providing the remaining $4 million.
The Ipswich-Rosewood Road (Amberley) intersection planning will investigate options for a long-term solution at the intersection, including grade separation, a bypass or duplication of the highway.
It will also take into consideration feedback received from the community during the consultation process and focus on improving safety for all users of this important transport connection.
The Ipswich-Rosewood Road (Amberley) intersection is a key connection for freight and the local community. It also acts as the main access point to Australia’s largest operational military air base – Royal Australian Air Force Base Amberley.
This project is part of the Federal Government’s broader $170 million investment in the Cunningham Highway.
As planning progresses, the Queensland Government will continue to keep the community and stakeholders updated.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said, “Our aim is to identify and implement a way to improve safety and efficiency for both local residents and freight vehicles.
“The business case will consider how best to improve connections to the Royal Australian Air Force Amberley base.
“So much work goes into detailed planning for an upgrade of this calibre, and we want to ensure the design options reflect the needs of the community.”
Federal Member for Blair, Shayne Neumann, said the commitment is the first step in fixing the Amberley intersection and addressing growing traffic congestion challenges at the Ripley and Swanbank interchanges.
“A long-term solution to the Cunningham Highway would improve safety at the Amberley intersection, boost freight connectivity through the region, and reduce congestion for residents in Ipswich’s growth corridor and defence personnel at RAAF Base Amberley,” Mr Neumann said.
“The Australian and Queensland Governments will continue to work together to ensure Queensland receives the quality infrastructure it deserves.”
Image: AustralianCamera/shutterstock.com
