he next priorities along Queensland’s southern Roads of Strategic Importance (ROSI) initiative corridors are a step closer to delivery, with consultations held with industry and stakeholders in Toowoomba yesterday.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the Australian Government has committed $1.07 billion towards the ROSI initiative in Queensland.
“This funding will ensure our key freight roads efficiently connect agricultural and mining regions to ports, airports and other transport hubs, meaning communities can access and provide services,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.
“Projects being delivered include road sealing, flood immunity, strengthening and widening, pavement rehabilitation, bridge and culvert upgrades and road realignments.
“These projects will provide improved access and will deliver substantial social and economic benefits, including opportunities for greater regional employment and business growth.”
Assistant Minister for Road Safety and Freight Transport Scott Buchholz said it was a productive meeting and provided a great opportunity for local representatives to be involved, have their say and to put their ideas forward for funding consideration.
“These local representatives know the people and industries firsthand, who regularly drive along these corridors and various feeder roads,” Assistant Minister Buchholz said.
“It is an important part of the process that we engage with and consult local stakeholders about the next priorities for upgrades.
“While we are already getting on with the job of delivering ROSI upgrades and have approved a number of early works projects, we want to make sure that the next projects to be delivered address some of the concerns raised at today’s meeting.
“Now that we have a good understanding about where the communities want the funding to go, in consultation with the Queensland Government, this wish list will inform the projects to be delivered with the remaining available ROSI funding.”
