Facelift starts on Mackay intersection

An upgrade at one of Mackay’s busiest intersections at Nebo Road and Lagoon Street is set to deliver quicker and smoother trips for motorists using the Bruce Highway.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the improvements would ease congestion and cut travel times.

“The Australian Government has committed $863,000 toward the project, which is just one part of the $10 billion Australian Government investment to the Bruce Highway,” Mr McCormack said.

“Motorists frequently use both Nebo Road and Lagoon Street to travel from residential suburbs to schools, work, commercial and industrial areas – investing in this upgrade will make their daily lives that little bit easier, with less time spent in traffic.”

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the improvements also included works to the existing bike lane, pedestrian footpaths and road resurfacing.

“These are simple, but effective, changes which will deliver better developments without significant traffic impacts or disruption to the busy intersection,” Mr Bailey said.

“The Lagoon Street intersection is one of Mackay’s busiest, ferrying traffic into the city from the Bruce Highway as well as providing a well-used north-west route, so this upgrade will improve wait times for turning vehicles.”

Federal Member for Dawson George Christensen said the works would occur at night to limit the disruption to motorists.

“The upgrade will include an additional right turn lane when heading south on Lagoon Street to assist with traffic flow,” Mr Christensen said.

“The enhancements will also complement previous upgrades completed on Nebo Road, including the Bruce Highway and Shakespeare Street intersection works.”

Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert said the changes would help reduce queue lengths and delays, particularly on Lagoon Street.

“Many motorists turn right out of Lagoon Street when heading south, so the line marking will be changed to allow an additional right turn lane,” she said.

“The Lagoon Street approach lane will also be extended to increase capacity.”

Works are expected to take about four weeks to complete, weather permitting.

The Bruce Highway – Mackay Intersection Upgrade project is jointly funded by the Australian Government ($863,000) and the Queensland Government ($215,750).

ENDS

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