Three key projects are on track for completion in Far North Queensland, which will facilitate future trade and connect the the Port of Mackay with key road infrastructure.
The $2.9m extension of Edmund Casey Drive will improve port operational efficiencies, provide additional emergency access and create future land development opportunities.
Two other key infrastructure investment projects by North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) are also underway as part of an infrastructure investment program costing almost $6m and supporting up to 120 local jobs.
NQBP Chief Executive Officer, Nicolas Fertin, said the work to extend Edmund Casey Drive by lead contractor Shadforth were progressing well during a busy construction schedule to cap off 2019.
“Most of the earthworks and installation of services such as water pipeline and stormwater drains are completed,” Mr Fertin said.
“The project remains on track to be completed next year. The public should be aware that traffic management on Slade Point Road will increase in the coming weeks as works progress.”
About 8000m³ of earth has been moved to accommodate the new 500m road and 1.5km of electrical cabling is being installed to power 18 new street lights.
In addition, construction has started on $2.8m of works to build a large laydown and washdown facility with service improvements also taking place on power and water infrastructure.
“The large laydown and washdown area will modernise the facilitation of washing down and storage of imported goods subject to biosecurity controls at the Port. This will support future growth in the mining and agriculture machinery market,” Mr Fertin said.
In order to facilitate the moving of large cargo within northern laydown areas inside the port, 760m of overhead powerlines are being undergrounded and 900m of water mains are being replaced.
“The Port of Mackay is a gateway to central Queensland. These investments are important to pursuing and facilitating future trade and connecting the port’s supply chain to key road infrastructure, including the $497 million Mackay Ring Road,” Mr Fertin said.
