Riverway Drive duplication one step closer as construction tender is awarded

BMD Constructions Pty Ltd has been awarded the construction contract to duplicate a three-kilometre section of Riverway Drive, between Gollogly and Allambie lanes. 

Main Roads and Road Safety Minister Mark Bailey said construction would start in late May on the busy road, which was used by more than 20,000 vehicles each day.

“The Palaszczuk Government is delivering on its promise to upgrade this vital transport link, which connects the Upper Ross with employment, education and service hubs across the city,” Mr Bailey said.

“I’m also pleased to announce an additional $5 million in funding has been committed to the project, taking the total value to $35 million.

“An average of 82 jobs will be supported over the life of this project, with BMD Constructions required to maximise use of local people and businesses wherever possible.”

Member for Thuringowa Aaron Harper said this additional funding allows an extended project scope which will deliver maximum benefits to the community.

“New pedestrian boardwalks will be built along some sections of the riverbank, improving facilities and ensuring roadside parking will remain for community events in the area,” he said.

“A higher standard of lighting will also be installed along shared pathways, improving safety for pedestrians and cyclists.”

Mr Harper said the project would reduce congestion, leading to more reliable and consistent travel times.

“New signalised intersections, pedestrian crossings and centre median strips will also improve safety,” he said.

While every effort will be made to keep traffic disruptions to a minimum, motorists may experience delays and should allow extra travel time. Electronic display boards will notify people of changed conditions and delays.

The project team has been meeting with local residents and businesses who may be affected by access changes and noise during construction to ensure they are kept informed.

The Riverway Drive project is part of the Palaszczuk Government’s $2 billion State Infrastructure Fund to boost infrastructure investment and increase business confidence in Queensland.

ENDS

Media contacts           

For Minister Bailey:     Zoe Russell – 0428 079 640

For Mr Harper:            Thuringowa Electorate Office - 4766 3100

For more information on this project, visit https://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/Projects/Name/R/Riverway-Drive-Townsville-duplication

For up to date traffic information visit the QLDTraffic website www.qldtraffic.qld.gov.au, download the app or call 13 19 40.

To subscribe to construction progress updates for the Riverway Drive project, please call 1800 625 648 or email engagement.northern@tmr.qld.gov.au.