Motorists will soon benefit from major safety upgrades on the Bruce Highway between Benaraby and Rockhampton, as works get under way on a $26.6 million Federal Liberal and Nationals Government-funded project providing 71 direct jobs.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the upgrades were part of the jointly funded $12.6 billion Bruce Highway Upgrade Program - the largest road infrastructure program in Queensland.
"This vital piece of infrastructure services local communities and is a key route for industry in Central Queensland, which is why we are investing under our commitment to improving safety, flood resilience and capacity along the Bruce Highway between Brisbane and Cairns," Mr McCormack said.
"These upgrades are being delivered as part of the Federal Liberal and Nationals Government's fully-funded $175.2 million Black Spots, Rest Areas and Safety Upgrades Package and will deliver critical safety benefits to make sure the region can cater for future traffic growth.
"These sorts of projects support good local jobs. Our record $100 billion infrastructure pipeline will play an important role as we begin to rebuild our regional economies on the other side of the COVID-19 pandemic."
Federal Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry said works would include centreline widening, replacing culverts and installing new barriers.
"Centreline widening was introduced in Queensland in 2010 and data indicates a 50 per cent reduction in head-on casualty crashes on the Bruce Highway since it has been installed," Ms Landry said.
"This will improve traffic flow by separating turning traffic from through lanes, as well as improve driver comfort by separating opposing vehicles with centreline widening.
"They will also form part of the program to reduce the number of lives lost and serious injury crashes on the Bruce Highway."
Traffic control systems will be in place to keep traffic moving between 6am and 6pm, up to seven days a week, with possible delays of up to 15 minutes. All motorists are urged to plan their trip well in advance, be patient when encountering roadworks and follow signs, for a safe journey.
An average of 71 direct jobs will be supported over the life of the project with completion expected by mid 2021, weather permitting.
The $26.6 million Benaraby to Rockhampton Safety Upgrade project is fully-funded by the Federal Liberal and Nationals Government.
