A major change is on the way for Ipswich Motorway (M7) drivers.
Over coming weekends traffic will be progressively switched on the M7 between Boundary Road and Oxley Road to make way for construction of a higher, more flood resilient motorway over the Oxley Creek.
Premier and Member for Inala Anastacia Palaszczuk said it was the first critical step in the M7 six-lane upgrade from Darra to Rocklea.
“We’re investing more than $200 million to reduce congestion and build a safer Ipswich Motorway for the 85,000 motorists who use this road every day,” Premier Palaszczuk said.
“As a local I’ve seen how devastating floods can be for our community, and the impacts it can have on the M7. That’s why we’re building new bridges over the Oxley Creek that are not only wider, but flood resilient.
“It’s a great outcome for our community, and one that will importantly support more than 470 jobs over the life of the project.
“Once complete, the M7 upgrade will unlock a six-lane motorway between Rocklea and Darra, and new service roads to support our growing region and local economy.”
Transport and Main Roads Minister and Member for Miller Mark Bailey said the new traffic switch would commence from 6pm on Friday, March 22.
Weather permitting, this weekend eastbound traffic will be diverted onto the new southern service road, while the following weekend eastbound traffic will be moved onto the existing westbound lanes.
“This is a much-needed upgrade for Brisbane and Ipswich that adds to the record $45.8 billion being invested by the Palaszczuk Government over the next four years in major transport and infrastructure projects,” Mr Bailey said.
“Our local area is home to a thriving business precinct, which includes the popular Rocklea markets, and this upgrade is good news for our local freight industry and businesses.”
Member for Mount Ommaney Jess Pugh said it was another win for local families and motorists following the announcement of detailed designs for a new Centenary Bridge at Jindalee.
“Families want to spend less time on the road and more time at home. And these upgrades will make a real difference to motorists in Brisbane’s west,” Ms Pugh said.
Member for Algester and Minister for the Environment Leanne Enoch said it was great to see the Ipswich Motorway upgrade move from strength to strength.
“The upcoming construction will be a welcome sight for the businesses and locals who are keen to see our government get on with the job of building roads,” Ms Enoch said.
“I’m pleased to see the construction of the new Oxley Creek bridges will be done in a way that will make sure construction does not impact local waterways.”
The Ipswich Motorway upgrade from Rocklea to Darra is being delivered by the Palaszczuk Government with a funding contribution from the Australian Government.
