Queensland's largest road infrastructure project - the Toowoomba Second Range Crossing - will officially open on 8 September, transforming the national freight network in the Toowoomba and Lockyer Valley regions.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the $1.6 billion infrastructure investment project would significantly reduce travel times across the range and deliver a safer, more efficient connection to ports and markets.
"Connecting the Warrego Highway at Helidon Spa in the east to the Gore Highway at Athol in the west, the new Toowoomba Second Range Crossing will form a vital strategic link within Australia's National Freight Network and Toowoomba's emerging intermodal network," Mr McCormack said.
"Right across Australia, the Federal Government is investing to get people home to their loved ones sooner and safer."
Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads Mark Bailey said the project would make life easier for residents of Toowoomba and Lockyer Valley areas.
"With trucks being redirected away from Toowoomba's central business district, pressure will be taken off local roads," Mr Bailey said.
"The opening of the Toowoomba Second Range Crossing in September will be the moment that the decades of dedication and hard work from so many people to see this road built is finally achieved.
"Construction of the Second Range Crossing has already delivered huge economic benefits to Toowoomba and the Darling Downs.
"Those benefits will continue thanks to the freight efficiencies and improved road safety outcomes that come with the completion of this major project."
Federal Member for Groom John McVeigh said the Australian Government's $1.137 billion investment provided a major boost to the region's economy.
"Through a range of employment and supply chain opportunities the project has already had a major impact on the Australian economy," Dr McVeigh said.
"This is fantastic news for residents and visitors to the Toowoomba and Lockyer Valley regions and I'm looking forward to seeing the first vehicles driving through in just over a month."
