First stage of Ipswich Motorway one step closer to construction

Jobs and solutions to traffic congestion on the Ipswich Motorway are one step closer following the release of invitations to industry to bid for work in one of South East Queensland’s most significant road projects, Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said today. 

“My government committed $200 million towards the first stage of upgrading the Ipswich Motorway, to ensure this project became a reality,” Ms Palaszczuk said.

“I’m pleased to announce Stage 1of the Ipswich Motorway upgrade between Rocklea and Darra contract procurement has begun with the call for proposals and registrations of interest.

“The Ipswich Motorway is currently a major source of frustration for more than 85,000 motorists who use this section of the motorway daily, including up to 12,000 trucks.

“The sooner the longstanding congestion and safety issues on the Ipswich Motorway are alleviated, the better it will be for road users and the community.

“This project will provide a safer and quicker journey for motorists and improve national and local freight movements.

“In addition, during construction 470 jobs will be created with the knock-on effect helping out local business.”

Main Roads, Road Safety and Ports Minister Mark Bailey said Stage 1had drawn strong interest from the construction industry.

“Industry has a keen eye on the project which ensures there will be healthy competition between proponents,” Mr Bailey said.

“We’re asking for innovation and capability from industry to make certain we get a solution that serves road users and delivers value for money.

“The contract to design and construct Stage 1 of the Ipswich Motorway Upgrade: Rocklea to Darra project will be awarded in early 2017.”

“In the meantime, we are well underway with preconstruction and have identified early works activities which can start before awarding the major construction contract for the project.”

“Some early works include the safety improvement works on the motorway’s eastbound off-ramp to the roundabout at Oxley and Blunder roads starting in June.

The works at this location will improve the safety of the off-ramp and roundabout by reducing queuing from the ramp extending back to the motorway through lanes.

The project includes:

• upgrading motorway from four to six lanes
• Seven new bridges and major culverts including higher bridges at Oxley Creek to improve flood immunity
• new southern service road connection from Rocklea industrial precinct to the Oxley commercial and retail areas
• new traffic signals at the Suscatand Street intersection.

Expressions of interest will close on June 17, 2016. 

Major construction is scheduled to start in 2017, weather permitting.

Stage 1 is funded equally by the Australian and Queensland governments.

Media Contact:        Minister Bailey’s office   0429 890 942