Cairns roads score from Palaszczuk Government savings

The Palaszczuk Government has kept money in Cairns, using savings from the Bill Fulton Bridge duplication to upgrade the Cairns Western Arterial Road (CWAR) and Harley Street intersection.

Member for Barron River Craig Crawford said the $16 million savings would be reinvested in the city.

“The duplication of Bill Fulton Bridge was completed last December,” Mr Crawford said.

“I’m pleased to inform you that the project was delivered on time and under budget, thanks to a competitive market and good management of the project, avoiding the need to call on contingencies during construction. This means a saving of $16.3 million from the original $34.2 million allocation, and more bang for buck on our roads here in Cairns.

“I know how busy this road can get, particularly during school pick up and drop off time, so it’s great to see additional Palaszczuk Government funds will be used to further reduce congestion and increase safety.

“I urged the Minister for Main Roads to keep the savings in Cairns, focused on our next highest road priority along CWAR, which is the Harley Street intersection.”

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said his department would look to progress the project as quickly as possible.

“The scope of work is yet to be finalised and there is still planning and design work to be done, as well as stakeholder engagement,” Mr Bailey said.

“At this stage we expect to start construction in mid-2019.”

Minister for State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning Cameron dick said the project would increase the intersection’s capacity, and provide more efficient and safer access to the local school.

“This is also great news for workers in Cairns, who will benefit from the continued upgrade of this road.”

Mr Dick said more information about the scope and timing of the project would be released as planning progresses.

ENDS

Media contact: Dominic Geiger, 0447355565