The Australian and Queensland Governments have unlocked funding to fix the dangerous intersection of the Warrego Highway and Brimblecombe Road in southern Queensland.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the Federal Government had listened to the community and would be investing up to $2.2 million to upgrade the local black spot.
“Fixing this intersection will ensure Queenslanders in the Toowoomba and Darling Downs regions can travel home more safely every time they are on the road,” Mr McCormack said.
“The Federal Member for Groom John McVeigh has advocated tirelessly for this upgrade and thanks to his work, we are confirming federal funding to deliver these improvements as soon as possible.”
Queensland Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the intersection had seen a number of crashes over recent years, including two tragic fatalities.
“Confirming funding for this upgrade will allow construction to get underway from next year, once detailed design and other important preparatory works are complete,” Mr Bailey said.
“Under the jointly funded Warrego Highway program, we are investing along this critical east-west freight and commuter route to save lives, reduce business costs, better connect communities and support construction jobs through the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.
“The global economy has been hit hard by COVID-19, and Queensland hasn’t been immune. But the community’s strong health response to-date means our state can continue its plan for economic recovery, which includes upgrades for the Warrego as part of our record $23 billion pipeline of road and transport upgrades.”
Dr McVeigh welcomed the announcement, saying the upgrades would address longstanding safety issues at the intersection.
“Works will include a dedicated right-turn lane to separate turning vehicles from fast-moving highway traffic, road widening to increase drivers’ margin of error, improved signage and lighting upgrades,” Dr McVeigh said.
“The Australian Government is continuing to roll out its $100 billion nationwide infrastructure investment pipeline, supporting jobs and communities through COVID-19 and the economic recovery.”
The Australian Government has committed $2.2 million to the $2.8 million Warrego Highway – Brimblecombe Road Intersection Upgrade, with the Queensland Government committing the remainder.
