Works start to build overtaking lanes
WORKS to build two overtaking lanes on the Bruce Highway, between Proserpine and Bowen, will start this month after Vassallo Constructions secured the construction contract.
Deputy Prime Minister and Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the $12.57 million project was being delivered as part of the Australian Government’s fully funded $275 million Overtaking Lanes Package along the Bruce Highway.
“We are funding these works in a bid to boost safety and efficiency on Queensland’s key north-south transport corridor,” McCormack said.
“As the Bruce Highway between Proserpine and Bowen is used by about 3800 vehicles each day, providing motorists with more opportunities to safely overtake will reduce the likelihood of motorists taking risks, especially when following trucks, buses and caravans.”
Queensland Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said this was another example of the how the jointly funded $12.6 billion Bruce Highway Upgrade Program was making the Bruce Highway a safer road for all motorists.
“From Cairns to Brisbane, making the Bruce Highway safer for all motorists is a high priority for the Queensland Government,” Mr Bailey said.
“Projects such as this also increase the Bruce Highway’s capacity, creating a more efficient route for freight, tourist and commuter traffic, to help motorists get to their destinations safer and faster.”
Federal Member for Dawson George Christensen congratulated Mackay company Vassallo Constructions on their successful tender for the project, which would support 41 jobs.
“North and south bound overtaking lanes will be constructed near Collingvale Road, about 16km north of Proserpine,” Mr Christensen said.
“This further commitment to the Bruce Highway means local bitumen rollers, grader operators, steel fixers, diesel fitters, machine operators and engineers are being employed.
“The Federal Government also understands that road works can put pressure on traffic movements, which is why the two overtaking lanes will be constructed at the same time to reduce the overall project duration and minimise the impact to motorists.”
For more information, visit www.tmr.qld.gov.au/Projects.