Selected intersections along major Cairns roads will be earmarked for safety upgrades as part of a $44.1 million program across Far North Queensland.
The works are funded under the Australian Government’s commitment of $783 million toward road safety improvements through the $3 billion Road Safety Program.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Barnaby Joyce said the funding is supporting the fast roll-out of life-saving safety works on rural and regional roads across Queensland.
“One life lost on Australian roads is one too many,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.
“That’s why the Australian Government has committed $3 billion for the nationwide Road Safety Program.”
Queensland Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said works had already started at the intersection of McLeod and James Street.
“Work has kicked off in Cairns at one of the many locations to be upgraded as part of this project,” Mr Bailey said.
“The intersections that follow will be selected based on specific criteria, including the type of intersection and crash history.
“This is all being delivered as part of the Palaszczuk Government’s record $27.5 billion road and transport plan.”
Federal Member for Leichhardt Warren Entsch said thanks to the funding, commuters and freight drivers can expect a more enjoyable, safe experience on Far North Queensland roads.
“Additional upgrades include widened footpaths and reconfigured turning lanes for improved safety and traffic flow,” Mr Entsch said.
“Other projects funded under the Road Safety Program in Far North Queensland include $5 million to widen the Captain Cook Highway south of Craiglie, and $8 million for shoulder widening and wide centre line treatments on the Mossman Daintree Road north of Mossman.”
Member for Cairns Michael Healy said the upgrade would also include improvements for pedestrians.
“New pedestrian signals will be installed as part of the project, including tactile ground plates to assist vision impaired people navigate the crossing,” Mr Healy said.
“We will widen footpaths and reconfigure turning lanes for improved safety and traffic flow, as well as building lanes to safely pass bike riders at selected intersections.
“Works are expected to be completed in mid-2022, weather and construction conditions permitting.
“This is a big win for Cairns locals and I look forward to seeing work continue to progress on the project.”
