The Australian Government has approved funding for development works for the Mackay Northern Access Upgrade project on the Bruce Highway, NSW.
The project will complete the freight link between the Bruce Highway and the Mackay Ring Road (stage one) project.
The upgrade will include new lanes added along 4.4km of the Bruce Highway and intersection upgrades.
The Mackay Northern Access Upgrade is part of $6.7 billion 10-year Bruce Highway Upgrade Program that is increasing safety on Queensland’s key north-south route.
Federal Member for Dawson, George Christensen, said the Mackay Northern Access Upgrade would enhance the link from the Mackay Ring Road to the Port of Mackay.
“Activities to be funded with this tranche of funding include tender evaluation and contract award, geotechnical investigations, detailed design work, public consultation, utility relocation and land acquisition,” Mr Christensen said.
“Land acquisition and geotechnical investigations are expected to be completed by the end of 2017, allowing for the completion of detailed design and tendering in mid-2018 which will pave the way for construction to commence late 2018, weather permitting.”
The Australian Government will contribute up to $64 million, and the Queensland Government will contribute $16 million towards the $80 million Mackay Northern Access Upgrade.
