Ring Road at starter's gate.

Construction firms are at the starter's gate as tenders open for the right to build the first stage of Bundaberg's $92 million ring road.

Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Paul Lucas, said tenders have been called for the first 7.4 km section between Goodwood and Bargara roads.

"This is another milestone for the Bundaberg Ring Road - it means we're on track to start construction in November.

"By mid-2009 the first stage will be open to traffic with less congestion and fewer trucks on city streets.

"Based on current and projected traffic counts, Main Roads predicts the first stage of the ring road will deliver a travel time saving of up to seven minutes."

Mr Lucas said the Bundaberg Ring Road would provide an alternative route from the Isis Highway to industrial areas and the port.

"This vital section of road puts in place additional infrastructure to support Bundaberg Port's change of focus to become a regional freight hub.

"Ultimately the Bundaberg Ring Road will grow to just over 14 kilometres in stage 2.

"It will connect the Isis Highway to Bargara Road via Von Deest Street with a bridge over the North Coast rail line near Goodwood Road.

"The Ring Road then follows Lovers Walk and Greathead Road, before crossing over FE Walker Street to Bargara Road near the Gahans Road junction.

"Intersections will be built at Bargara Road, FE Walker Street, Elliott Heads Road, Goodwood Road and the Isis Highway.

"Tenders for the second seven kilometre stage of the two lane ring road will be called in February next year ahead of a start on construction by June.

"It's expected the entire Bundaberg Ring Road will be completed by December, 2009.

"Our commitment to the ring road recognises Bundaberg's role as a key contributor to the state's increasingly diverse economy," Mr Lucas said.

Media Contact: Darren Roberts 3237 1947 / 0448 184566.