Caravonica upgrade gives roundabout the slip

Motorists travelling north onto the Captain Cook Highway from the Cairns Western Arterial Road can now bypass the Caravonica roundabout, Main Roads Minister Warren Pitt announced today.

“Until now, these motorists have had to use the roundabout, which has often involved queueing,” Mr Pitt said.

“As of today, traffic turning left will be able to merge onto the highway north of the roundabout, which will help ease congestion.

“The $700,000 project started in mid-September and has finished more than two weeks ahead of schedule. Street lighting was also improved as part of the works.

"Funding for this project has been made possible by the Queensland Government's Rural and Regional Funding initiative, which targets roads outside the south-east corner for upgrades.

“In 2006, this initiative provided funding for the installation of traffic lights and associated works on the roundabout.”

Member for Barron River Steve Wettenhall said the roundabout was the first in Cairns to have traffic lights installed.

“The traffic lights only operate when the northbound queue on the Cook Highway gets too long in peak periods,” Mr Wettenhall said.

“Sensors on the northbound leg trigger the lights to turn amber and then red. This stops southbound vehicles that are turning right and gives northbound vehicles right-of-way.

“Once the queue has cleared, the lights stop operating and normal roundabout rules apply. This slip lane, combined with the traffic lights, should significantly improve the situation during peak times.

“These projects are another demonstration of the Queensland Government's commitment to meet the needs of the people of Cairns and the northern beaches.”

Media contact: Minister Pitt’s Office 3227 8819; Mr Wettenhall’s Office 4038 2800