Hughenden to be connected via new pedestrian bridge

Safe pedestrian access between east and west Hughenden will be provided via a new pedestrian bridge and footpath across the Flinders Highway, thanks to the Queensland Government‘s $495 million Royalties for the Regions program.

Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jeff Seeney said the government had committed more than 60 per cent of funds to build a pedestrian bridge crossing Swanson Creek and a 815 metre cycling and walking path away from the busy Flinders Highway.

“Providing a pedestrian bridge at Hughenden is a great project which will improve the lifestyle and safety of residents,” Mr Seeney said.

“It fulfils our election promise to deliver better infrastructure and planning and shows that we have a strong plan for regional Queensland, where Labor failed for so many years.

“This project is being delivered in partnership with Flinders Shire Council. Royalties for the Regions will contribute $300,000 to the pedestrian bridge and council will contribute the remaining $180,000.”

Flinders Shire Council Mayor Greg Jones said the road was the main route between Hughenden and Mt Isa, used by heavy vehicles, particularly mining vehicles, which made up about 40 per cent of traffic.

“Segregation of the road will address safety concerns for pedestrians, including elderly residents using mobility scooters, fitness walkers and cyclists sharing the road with these heavy transport vehicles,” Mr Jones said.

“A fatality occurred here in 2012, so the project will reduce the risk factors and likelihood of further tragic accidents.

“In addition, members of the community, including residents, visitors and staff at the hospital and Hughenden Centre for the Aged, as well as council workers, will benefit from having access to options for better physical activity, health and wellbeing.”

Mr Seeney said the State Government would finalise other successful Royalties for the Regions Round 3 applications in coming weeks with more than 23 council projects expected to share in this round’s allocations.

To date more than 39 councils across Queensland have received over $250 million funding through the program, delivering more than 235 kilometres of road upgrades, community infrastructure and flood mitigation projects.

For more information visit http://www.qld.gov.au/royalties

[ENDS] 15 May 2014

Media Contact: Jane Paterson 0417 281 754 or Elizabeth Spry 0418 928 744