Western Freeway makeover to begin

One of Brisbane’s busiest motorways will be upgraded to increase capacity and improve safety.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson said the Western Freeway between Indooroopilly and Toowong would be widened from two-to-three lanes in each direction.

“This is a win for the people of the western suburbs, with about 70,000 vehicles using this stretch of road every day,” Mr Emerson said.

“Increasing the capacity of the Western Freeway means less congestion on this busy road is on the horizon, particularly when you include the Moggill Road interchange upgrade and Legacy Way tunnel which is nearing completion.

“I’ve ensured the $55 million upgrade will also include upgraded noise barriers for residents.

“All existing noise walls along the Western Freeway between Toowong and Indooroopilly, impacted as part of the works, will be upgraded to concrete barriers, similar to those used for the Moggill Road interchange.”

Mr Emerson said the upgrade would be delivered by Transcity, which was delivering the Legacy Way tunnel and Moggill Road interchange upgrade for Brisbane City Council.

“Transcity’s involvement will reduce the duration of construction impacts on the local community and travelling public,” he said.

Construction, including early works, will begin this week and is expected to be complete prior to the Legacy Way tunnel opening in 2015.

[ENDS] 26 February 2014

Media contact: Stephanie Shield 0418 186 625