Bruce Highway remains top priority

Key flood mitigation works on the Bruce Highway will be stepped up in the coming months as part of the Queensland Government’s Bruce Highway “Out of the Crisis” Action Plan.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson today inspected the Vantassel Street to Cluden upgrade in Townsville, aimed at flood proofing an important section of the highway.

“A serious weather event like Cyclone Ita reinforces the importance of delivering projects like this one, as we work to bring the Bruce Highway up to a satisfactory standard,” Mr Emerson said.

“More than $1 billion in flood works are currently underway and works are on track despite the recent flooding and rain from Cyclone Ita.

“After years of neglect by the former Labor Government we are delivering our promised additional $1 billion in funding over 10 years for better safety, flood mitigation and capacity upgrades to this 1,700km lifeline.”

In October 2012, the Newman Government released the Bruce Highway Action Plan – a 10-year blueprint to upgrade the Bruce Highway. This formed the basis for a 10-year $10 billion package of works with the Abbott Government.

Mr Emerson said works on the $137 million, seven-kilometre Vantassel Street to Cluden site was on track to be completed by mid-2015.

“Works on the rail overpass near Abbott Street and the new Stuart Creek bridge are underway,” he said.

“From mid next month, motorists will see more activity on the highway as we start to move traffic to new and temporary traffic lanes, particularly around Abbott Street and Lakeside Drive. 

The project is jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland governments, with the Australian Government contributing $110 million and the Queensland Government contributing $27.5 million.

Media contact: Stephanie Shield 0418 186 625