The Federal and Queensland governments have announced they will jointly fund a $10 million upgrade to one of the city’s busiest intersections.
Following last week’s landmark $1.9 billion deal to fast-track Queensland road and rail projects, including the Gold Coast Light Rail Stage 3A and upgrades to M1 exits 41 and 49 on the northern Gold Coast, both governments will fund the multi-million dollar Oxley Drive and Brisbane Road, Arundel intersection upgrade on a 50/50 basis.
The upgrade will include additional right-turn lanes on the highway, a new bike lane and pedestrian fences, and follows more than $160 million in Gold Coast road upgrades delivered prior to the Commonwealth Games, including the six-lane upgrade of Olsen Avenue. Plans for the upgrade also include extending existing right lanes for vehicles.
Minister for Cities, Urban Infrastructure and Population Alan Tudge said the project would better support Gold Coast population growth and help to bust congestion.
“The Gold Coast population is expected to increase by 62 per cent to over 928,000 by 2041, so this upgrade is vital to meeting the demands of population growth and ensuring that the Gold Coast remains a liveable city,” Mr Tudge said.
“We’re committed to delivering key infrastructure across the Gold Coast in order to bust congestion, support key industries such as freight and tourism and better connect the region’s fast-growing communities.”
Queensland Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said it was about cutting congestion and improving safety on one of the city’s fastest-growing commercial and residential hubs.
“Not only that, the project will drive local business growth, with 34 construction and engineering jobs to be supported.
“It’s part of the Queensland Government’s multi-billion roads and transport budget for the region, which will also see $2.3 billion in jointly-funded upgrades for the M1 over the next four years.
Federal Member for Fadden, Stuart Robert said Gold Coasters are sick of sitting in traffic and upgrading this intersection will help people get home sooner and safer.
“It’s one of the busiest intersections on the Gold Coast and one of our worst bottlenecks, I’m happy to see this project along with the Light Rail Stage 3A and upgrades to M1 exits on the northern Gold Coast fast-tracked through the acceleration of federal funding.”
“To have the timeline accelerated on these vital projects is a big win for the Northern Gold Coast and another example of how the Morrison Government is getting on with the job of delivering.”
The Australian Government is contributing $5 million to the $10 million Oxley Drive and Brisbane Road, Arundel intersection upgrade under the Urban Congestion Fund. The remainder is being funded by the Queensland Government.
Major works will begin next year following the relocation of utilities.
