A $1.65 million upgrade has begun on a 900m section of the Bruce Highway near Aldershot north of Maryborough in Queensland.
Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Darren Chester, said the rehabilitation works, including strengthening the highway surface, would reduce the need for ongoing maintenance works.
“Good infrastructure can change lives and it can save lives, and fixing this stretch of the Bruce Highway will help make it safer for the thousands of drivers who use it on a daily basis,” Mr Chester said.
“The Australian Government is investing more than $1.3 billion over ten years to fix dangerous sections of the Bruce Highway – and these works show the dollars are going where they’re needed.”
Queensland Minister for Main Roads, Road Safety and Ports, Mark Bailey, said minor widening works would also be completed at the Herrenberg Street intersection.
“The intersection will be widened to allow vehicles to move safely around left-turning traffic,” Mr Bailey said.
Federal Member for Wide Bay, Llew O’Brien, welcomed the new spending and said he would keep lobbying for more investment in the highway.
“The Bruce Highway is the main artery running through the Wide Bay electorate and is used by locals, tourists, truckies and families every day. This investment in fixing the stretch just north of Maryborough is good news for everyone travelling that route,” Mr O’Brien said.
“Ensuring the Bruce Highway is as safe as possible for drivers is one of my top priorities.
“A better highway also builds a stronger economy and supports jobs and I’ll keep fighting for every dollar I can get to make sure the highway meets the needs of motorists, businesses and industry.”
Member for Maryborough, Bruce Saunders, said the works were good news for local motorists.
“These works will increase safety and efficiency on the Bruce Highway for all road users,” Mr Saunders said.
“Works are scheduled for completion by the end of the year.”
The $1.65 million project is being jointly funded by the Australian Government with a $1.6 million contribution, and $50,000 from the Queensland Government.
