Mount Morgan residents can look forward to a safer road network as major improvement works commence on Razorback Road next month.
A partial closure of the road will commence from Monday, 2 September 2024 to allow for early works. A full closure will then be necessary from Friday, 13 September 2024 through to the end of January 2025 to facilitate road improvement works along an 800 metre section.
The project will involve flattening the sharp curve of Razorback Road, widening the road shoulders, improving drainage and installing new guardrails. Separately, the Mount Morgan Pipeline will also be laid during this road closure period.
Motorists will be diverted via Poison Creek Road and the Burnett Highway, locally known as 'The Range Road', will serve as the northern route into Mount Morgan.
Rockhampton Region Mayor Tony Williams said while the closure may cause a temporary inconvenience, the long-term benefits to the community are significant.
"This project will eliminate the dangerous blackspot on Razorback Road, delivering a safer road while ensuring the delivery of a reliable water supply through the installation of the Mount Morgan pipeline," Mayor Williams said.
"Given the current safety risks associated with Razorback Road, especially the narrow width and steep incline, it is simply too dangerous to keep one lane open during construction.
"By taking advantage of the road closure for the pipeline installation, we are able to address two significant infrastructure needs at once, while minimising disruption to the community in the long run," Mayor Williams said.
Divisional Councillor Cherie Rutherford, said the end result of the project will come as a relief for residents who use Razorback Road on a daily basis.
"The incline of Razorback road has been a concern for many years, and I am pleased we are able to finally address this issue and reduce the risk of accidents," Cr Rutherford said.
"I'd like to thank the community in advance for their understanding and patience while these essential works are undertaken."
Signage will be placed at both the northern and southern entry points into Mount Morgan.
The Razorback Road improvements works are funded through Council's Capital Works Program.
