Key intersection upgrades locked in for Rockhampton

Key intersections in the Rockhampton CBD will undergo major overhauls as part of $37.61 million package of safety upgrades.

The jointly funded project will see five intersections along the Bruce Highway between George and Bolsover Street made safer. Intersections at the following locations will be upgraded:

  • George Street, Albert Street and the Bruce Highway
  • Alma Street and the Bruce Highway
  • Bolsover Street and the Bruce Highway
  • Alma Street and North Street
  • Denison Street and the Bruce Highway

Detailed design for the project is underway, with construction expected to commence in mid-2023 and be completed by mid-2024, weather permitting.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Barnaby Joyce said the Australian Government is now providing $808.39 million under the Bruce Highway Safety Package to deliver a safer, more efficient north-south road corridor for Queenslanders.

“Our investment is aimed at relieving pressure on the local urban network and increasing connectivity, accessibility, safety and efficiency,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

“This project is another example of Michelle Landry’s determination to deliver for the people of this region, to make sure the infrastructure they need and deserve is funded and delivered.”

Queensland Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the upgrades would see locals get home sooner and safer.

“The Bruce Highway is Queensland’s busiest highway and is the backbone of both regional communities and industry,” Mr Bailey said.

“The intersection upgrades will include additional lanes of traffic, extended turn lanes and upgraded traffic signals – helping remove the risk of rear end collisions from queueing.

“Upgraded pedestrian and cycling facilities will also improve the connectivity of the area with the existing active transport infrastructure through Rockhampton.

“The upgrade builds on work already underway in the region, as part of the Queensland Government’s record $17.8 billion regional road and transport budget over the next four years.

“This includes the upcoming Rockhampton Ring Road – the biggest infrastructure project to be delivered in Central Queensland.

“We’re backing the regions, creating jobs and delivering for locals like never before.”

Federal Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry said the Australian Government is continuing to deliver on its over $10 billion in a safer, smoother and more reliable Bruce Highway.

“This will benefit the entire Rockhampton region first and foremost, as part of our commitment to get all Queenslanders, from Brisbane to Cairns, home sooner and safer on this key north-south route,” Ms Landry said.

“I look forward to seeing these benefits realised by the Rockhampton community and all road users.”

State Member for Rockhampton Barry O’Rourke said the intersection upgrades would be welcomed by local drivers and local businesses alike.

“The massive projects we’re delivering in Central Queensland are providing the community with better roads, better transport and a significant boost to the local economy,” Mr O’Rourke said.

“Just recently we saw the Rockhampton Northern Access Upgrade wrap up, delivering safer access to and from the northern suburbs.

“The project also supported 255 local jobs – that’s 255 people eating, sleeping and spending their money in Rocky.

“And now, with the intersection upgrades in the pipeline, we’ll continue to bring jobs to the region and deliver even safer roads for locals.”

State Member for Keppel Brittany Lauga said Central Queensland would continue to reap the economic rewards.

“The best way the Queensland Government can deliver these major infrastructure projects is through collaborating with industry and proactively highlighting opportunities for local businesses to participate,” Ms Lauga said.

“We’re using local contractors and local suppliers, all working together to get the job done.”

The Australian Government’s $30.09 million contribution to the project will be provided under the $1.01 billion Bruce Highway Safety Package, with the Queensland Government contributing a further $7.52 million.

The Australian Government’s commitment forms part of our $31 billion transport infrastructure investment in Queensland since 2013, which is helping to connect communities and improve safety while creating jobs and supporting economic growth.

/Public Release. View in full here.