Construction kicks off today on upgrades to improve the safety along the Wide Bay Highway.
The $1.6 million project is jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland governments. The Australian Government is providing $1.28 million through the Road Safety Program, while the Queensland Government is contributing $320,000.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Barnaby Joyce said the project would improve safety with the development of clear zones between Gympie and Goomeri.
"The project will deliver more accessible roadsides by developing clear zones and reshaping drainage and verge areas to allow straying vehicles an opportunity to recover," Mr Joyce said.
"One life lost on Australian roads is one too many. That's why the Federal Liberal and Nationals Government has committed $3 billion for the Road Safety Program, funding projects like this nationwide."
Queensland Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey welcomed the project, which complemented other major safety improvements in the area.
"Safety is our number one priority and regional roads often provide a lifeline between many of the state's most isolated communities," Mr Bailey said.
"The Queensland Government is proud to be delivering $17.5 billion worth of regional road and transport infrastructure, supporting 15,870 jobs.
"Just down the road we can see the $14 million upgrade of the Bruce and Wide Bay Highways intersection wrapping up.
"We also have crews working away to deliver the $1 billion Gympie Bypass, between Woondum and Curra.
"These projects are more examples of the state government delivering for our regional communities."
Queensland Assistant Regional Roads Minister Bruce Saunders said drivers could expect to see improved culverts and new guardrails installed along the Wide Bay Highway once complete.
"We want every Queenslander to make it home safely, whichever part of the state they're travelling through," Mr Saunders said.
"Construction is expected to take two months and I look forward to locals enjoying a safer drive home through the area."
Federal Member for Wide Bay and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Llew O'Brien welcomed this latest investment in a safer Wide Bay Highway.
"The Queensland Government is responsible for funding the maintenance and repair of the Wide Bay Highway but this commitment from the Australian Government encourages the Queensland Government to fast-track and prioritise these improvements, and also means the Queensland Government can now allocate its roads budget to other road projects," Mr O'Brien said.
"Communities in Wide Bay have all seen the devastation road trauma causes, and every dollar of investment in making our roads safer will prevent crashes and injuries and save lives."
