Preliminary works have started on the $16.9 million James Street upgrade to address flooding in the Toowoomba central business district (CBD), with 80 per cent to be provided by the Australian Government and the remainder by the Queensland Government.
Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional DevelopmentMichael McCormack said geotechnical have been on-site, paving the way for crews to upgrade both the East Creek and West Creek culverts later this year.
“The upgrade is part of the Australian and Queensland governments’ $635 million Warrego Highway Upgrade Program,” Mr McCormack said.
“The East Creek and West Creek culverts aren’t currently built to modern flood immunity standards, which is why crews will upgrade them to make sure the Toowoomba CBD is better equipped during times of severe weather.”
Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads Mark Bailey said in addition to providing crucial flood mitigation, the project would also support more than 70 jobs during the construction phase of the project.
“James Street is a critical route for the Toowoomba community. This upgrade will see the capacity of both culverts increased to improve motorist, bike rider, pedestrian and community safety at the crossings,” Mr Bailey said.
“It adds to jointly funded Warrego Highway projects that are already completed, including the $115 million Dalby upgrades and $36.8 million Oakey to Dalby overtaking lanes project.”
Federal Member for Groom John McVeigh said the upgrade of East and West Creek culverts was the final piece of the jigsaw puzzle in Toowoomba’s flood mitigation strategy.
“The culvert upgrades will complete a series of flood mitigation improvements that aim to safeguard the community during major flood events and ensure there is never a repeat of the tragic events of 2011 in our city,” he said.
“These upgraded culverts will integrate with the surrounding area and broader transport networks,” Mr McVeigh said.
“Construction is expected to start later this year and completion is scheduled by June 2020, weather permitting.”
