Funding committed for Flinders Highway overtaking lanes

The Palaszczuk Government has committed $450,000 to begin detailed planning and undertake a business case for three overtaking lanes on the Flinders Highway between Townsville and Charters Towers.

Main Roads and Road Safety Minister Mark Bailey said the funding would be allocated in the upcoming State Budget to allow planning to progress on the crucial project.

“The Palaszczuk Government is continually working to improve and invest in our statewide road network,” he said.

“Under the Northern Australia Roads Programme, we applied for 80:20 funding to the Turnbull Government for this $15 million Flinders Highway upgrade. 

“It is outrageous that the Turnbull Government has failed to announce all of the successful projects, after several months.

“In the meantime, the Palaszczuk Government will get on with the job and progress the planning for this upgrade in our upcoming State Budget because we are serious about getting this project moving and providing certainty to local residents.”

Minister Assisting the Premier on North Queensland Coralee O’Rourke called on the Turnbull Government to commit funding to the Flinders Highway.

“Heavy vehicles, including large, multi-combination vehicles account for around 20 percent of traffic on the Flinders Highway, between Townsville and Charters Towers,” Ms O’Rourke said.

“Low speeds and limited overtaking opportunities contribute to regular traffic delays.

“By giving motorists more overtaking opportunities, we will improve safety, capacity and efficiency.

“We expect detailed planning for this project to be finished next year.

“But we need the Turnbull Government to come to the table and commit to the appropriate 80:20 funding split to provide certainty to this project moving forward.”

This detailed planning and business case is included in the four-year Queensland Transport and Roads Investment Program (QTRIP), released in conjunction with the State Budget. 

ENDS

Media contact: Anna Jabour 0429 890 942