$35M Riverway Drive duplication underway to improve traffic flow, safety

Major construction works on the $35 million duplication of Riverway Drive between Gollogly and Allambie Lane are now underway.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk, Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey and Minister Assisting the Premier on North Queensland Coralee O’Rourke joined Member for Thuringowa Aaron Harper and Member for Townsville Scott Stewart in Townsville today to turn the first sod.

“My Government is pleased to deliver this significant project for the people of Townsville, particularly those living in or travelling to Kelso and Rasmussen,” the Premier said.

“The start of construction means local workers getting on site, with an average of 82 jobs supported over the life of the project.

"I also know the motorists who travel Riverway Drive each day have been eagerly awaiting this upgrade.”

Minister Bailey said locals would have seen pre-construction activities starting earlier this month, while TMR worked with BMD to finalise construction plans, organise the local crew and source materials and machinery.

“The duplication of the three kilometre section of Riverway Drive will improve traffic flow and travel times, particularly benefitting those driving in peak hours,” he said.

“It will also improve safety for motorists, pedestrians and cyclists, incorporating new and upgraded signalised intersections; protected turning lanes; pedestrian crossings and refuges; centre medians; new bus stops and shelters; and upgraded street lighting.

“Thuringowa MP Aaron Harper has to be applauded for his relentless advocacy for this project, it’s because of him that we’re getting the job done in only his first term in Parliament.”

Minister O’Rourke said investing in local road upgrades created jobs during construction and long term benefits for the region.

“We know that roads are so important to keeping regional Queensland moving,” Mrs O’Rourke said.

“This upgrade means jobs for locals now and more opportunities for tourism and trade down the track, which is a win-win for our community.”

Mr Harper said while every effort would be made to minimise traffic disruptions, motorists could experience delays during construction and should allow extra travel time.

“Make no mistake, this is a big job. About 20,000 vehicles travel this section of Riverway Drive every day and managing this volume of traffic during construction will be challenging,” Mr Harper said.

“Road users should expect changed road conditions including lane and road shoulder closures, short durations of traffic stoppages, switches between traffic lanes and changing road level surfaces.

“Electronic display boards will notify motorists of delays and changed conditions.

“The project team has been meeting residents and businesses who may be affected by access changes and noise, to ensure they are kept well informed.”

For more information about the project and a detailed map, please visit www.tmr.qld.gov.au and search ‘Riverway Drive Duplication’.

More information can be obtained by:

       calling QLDTraffic on 13 19 40

       accessing the QLDTraffic app (for Apple and Android devices)

       visiting www.qldtraffic.com.au  

You can also subscribe to construction progress updates by calling 1800 625 648 or emailing [email protected].