The Queensland government has committed $375,000 to begin planning the proposed Mereeba Bypass project in the state’s north.
QLD Treasurer Curtis Pitt said the funds, part of the state budget, will allow a feasibility study to be undertaken into the proposed Mulligan Highway, Northern Bypass Route.
The bypass aims to reduce the number of heavy vehicles travelling through Byrnes Street and provide a safer, more efficient route to Mareeba Industrial Estate.
“The Palaszczuk Government is getting on with the job and progressing the planning for this upgrade because we’re serious about getting this project moving and providing certainty to local residents,” Mr Pitt said.
“We will begin planning this new road as a cost-effective route linking the Mulligan Highway and Mareeba-Dimbulah Road to service the growing Mareeba industrial estate.
“The planning will focus on fast-tracking the northern section of the proposed bypass.”
Mr Pitt said this planning funding was part of the Government’s four-year $20 billion Queensland Transport and Roads Investment Program (QTRIP), released in conjunction with the state budget.
“A proposed road alignment to the west of Mareeba has been identified in the Department of Transport and Main Roads’ long-term planning,” Mr Pitt said.
“We will work closely with Mareeba Shire Council and other stakeholders to refine the bypass route.”
The business case is expected to be complete by late 2017.
