Work to upgrade one of Rockhampton's most dangerous intersections is now under way thanks to new funding from the Albanese Labor Government.
Treasurer Jim Chalmers and Assistant Minister for Regional Development Anthony Chisholm met with Mayor Tony Williams in Rockhampton (on the central Queensland coast) to inspect progress on $800,000 worth of upgrades at the notorious intersection on Denison Street between Derby Street and Stanley Street, including traffic flow, speed mitigation and road surface improvements.
Fifteen serious traffic incidents occurred at the site between 2017 and 2022, including one fatality, leading the site to be declared a serious hazard.
The project was initially funded under the Federal Government's Black Spot Program but received additional funding through the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) Program which supports all Australian councils to deliver priority local road and community infrastructure.
Other sites set to be upgraded across Rockhampton under the LRCI program include:
- Improved pedestrian accessibility on Cambridge Street between the intersections at Lennox Street to Murray Lane.
- Upgraded road infrastructure and new asphalting along Murray Street between Fitzroy Street and Denham Street.
- Improved pedestrian access on Norman Road between the intersections at German Street to Dodgson Street.
Since the beginning of the program in 2020, the Commonwealth has invested nearly $10 million toward 15 projects across the Rockhampton region through the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure, 10 of which are now complete.
Quotes attributable to Treasurer Jim Chalmers:
"This is all about making Rockhampton's roads much less dangerous. This project and others will save locals' lives.
"We're taking care of Central Queenslanders with cost of living relief for every household and meaningful investments in local infrastructure and Rockhampton is front and centre in that.
"Our important investments in local roads will help people get home sooner and safer."
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development and Local Government, Kristy McBain MP:
"We're getting on with the job of delivering for regional towns across Australia - with increased funding, grant programs that every postcode can apply for, and record engagement with communities.
"When we work together, we get the best outcomes for our community, which is why we'll continue to partner with the Rockhampton regional Council to deliver the community infrastructure that locals need and deserve."
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Regional Development and Senator for Queensland, Senator Anthony Chisholm:
"While these projects may seem small when compared to other major infrastructure projects underway in Rockhampton, like the Rocky Ring Road, they make a major difference to motorists who commute through these streets every day.
"Improving local infrastructure is the main goal under the LRCI, but these upgrades also make a massive difference to improving road safety when they're completed.
"Council prioritised the intersection on Denison Street between Derby Street and Stanley Street due to its track record as a very dangerous part of the city's road network, so its great to see works well under way to fix this notorious intersection."
Quotes attributable to Rockhampton Mayor, Tony Williams:
"This is an important partnership between Federal and Local Government that has supported road upgrades and improved community infrastructure across our region.
"I want to acknowledge the support we have received from the Albanese Labor Government and their continued investment into local roads which is delivering real outcomes in our community.
"These projects not only make communities safer and more accessible but also support local jobs and businesses."
