Safety and improved travel times have received a boost at the Deception Bay Road interchange, with the Bruce Highway upgrade now fully open for use.
This $163.3 million project, jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland governments, is complete, with all six traffic lanes opening for the very first time.
Turning lanes across the highway and new connections for people walking or riding are also open following the completion of significant construction works.
The major interchange upgrade included replacing the old, four-lane bridge over the Bruce Highway at Burpengary with two larger, wider bridges to accommodate six lanes of traffic on Deception Bay Road.
The intersections at either end of the interchange were upgraded, along with improved highway entry and exit ramps, including new loops.
Active-transport facilities have been built, including shared pathways, a pedestrian bridge and underpass to give bike riders and people walking connectivity across the highway.
Over coming months, final works will be carried out to surface the road, install Intelligent Transport Systems and relocate the Heavy Vehicle Interception Site closer to the interchange.
Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:
"Improved safety and efficiency, particularly at Bruce Highway access points, are the key benefits of this interchange upgrade.
"The two new, wider and larger bridges over the highway are getting local motorists home sooner and safely.
"The new active transport facilities have created safe routes for people walking and riding their bikes, giving greater incentive to leave the car at home and make active travel choices."
Quotes attributable to Deputy Premier and Acting Minister for Main Roads Steven Miles:
"There has been a lot of progress made over the last 12 months as we've seen the two larger, wider bridges come together before our eyes.
"These critical upgrades mean this part of Queensland's road network is the better and safer.
"Importantly, this project created 270 good, local jobs during construction."
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Regional Development and Senator for Queensland Anthony Chisholm:
"Burpengary and Deception Bay motorists will breathe a sigh of relief when they hear that this crucial upgrade is now complete.
"As more people choose to call this wonderful area home, that means more cars on our roads. The Albanese government is committed to delivering the infrastructure upgrades that Queensland needs to improve travel times and protect lives.
"After a devastating year on our roads in 2022, making our roads safer through significant upgrades like these also remains a high priority. The new Deception Bay Road interchange will provide locals and visitors with a safer journey."
Quotes attributable to Bancroft MP Chris Whiting:
"This is big news for Burpengary and Deception Bay drivers, and big news for the safety of every person travelling in this community.
"The students at Arethusa College next door can also now walk or ride from one side of the highway to the other to get to school safely. We care about our most vulnerable road users.
"The interchange upgrade eases congestion, caters for future traffic growth and has boosted the Queensland economy.
Quotes attributable to Kurwongbah MP Shane King:
"Opening the active transport facilities, including the connections for walkers and bike riders to safely cross the Bruce Highway, is also a great safety outcome and encourages more people to get out and actively enjoy our great Queensland lifestyle.
"The speed limit on the Bruce Highway along here will return to 100 km/h in coming months as the final touches are completed on the project."I would like to thank motorists and the community for their ongoing patience during construction of this important interchange upgrade."
