Early construction works to start on M1 upgrade

The Pacific Motorway upgrade between Mudgeeraba and Varsity Lakes is a step closer with construction on an early works package starting this week.

Federal Minister for Urban Infrastructure Paul Fletcher said the early works contract was awarded to Civil Mining and Construction (CMC), who were now mobilising to a site near The Link Way in Mudgeeraba.

"The funding commitment agreed between the Queensland and Commonwealth governments in March is a win for everyone who routinely experiences peak hour congestion on this section of the motorway," Mr Fletcher said.

"The fact we have a funding agreement during the design stage of these works shows the commitment of both levels of government to upgrade the M1 as a priority.

"This means CMC can now start installing CCTV cameras at the Mudgeeraba, Robina and Varsity Lakes interchanges, as well as an overhead electronic sign at Reedy Creek."

Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the upgrade will support an average of 321 jobs over the life of the project.

"With the design almost complete, tenders for on-road construction are expected to be out to market later this year and works on the main contract should start shortly after that,” Ms Palaszczuk said.

"The main contract includes adding a third lane in both directions between Mudgeeraba and Varsity Lakes, and a fourth lane northbound between Robina and Mudgeeraba interchanges."

State Acting Main Roads and Road Safety Minister Steven Miles said the underground works to relocate public service utilities between Exits 79 and 82 were extensive and expected to continue until early 2018.

"By doing this now as part of the early works package, crews will be able to hit the ground running when main construction begins," Mr Miles said.

“Importantly, the upgrade will not impact traffic flows during the Commonwealth Games.

“A block-out period will be in place to ensure no planned roadwork lane closures or reduced speed limits occur on the motorway in the lead up to, and during the Games.”

Federal Member for McPherson Karen Andrews said the upgrade also included improvements to the on and off ramps at the Mudgeeraba, Robina and Varsity Lakes interchanges.

"This is a significant upgrade – almost 6kms – and we're talking major construction works that will have ongoing impacts for motorists for at least the next two years," Mrs Andrews said.

"Everyone who travels through this section of the national highway needs to be aware of the works, stay informed and consider their travel options."

Motorists can subscribe to the free SMS and email traffic update services for the Pacific Motorway upgrade between Mudgeeraba (Exit 79) and Varsity Lakes (Exit 85) by registering at M2VL@tmr.qld.gov.au or calling the project team on 1800 571 817.

Media Contacts

For Mr Fletcher:                                 Boronia Morison                                 0428 523 732

For Premier Palaszczuk:                   Geoff Breusch                                     0417 272 875

For Mr Miles:                                      Zoe Russell                                         0428 079 640