Road widening works progressing well north of Maryborough on the Bruce Highway

Road widening works are progressing well on a 2.5km section of the Bruce Highway near Pig Creek and Little Pig Creek between Childers and Torbanlea.

Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Darren Chester said the $3.4 million road widening works, which started in February, would help improve road safety on this part of the Bruce Highway.

“The Australian Government is committed to delivering further safety improvements like this along the length of the Bruce Highway,” Mr Chester said.

Queensland Minister for Main Roads and Road Safety Mark Bailey said Hazell Brothers Pty Ltd has been awarded the construction contract.

“An average of 10 direct jobs will be supported over the construction of the project, which is expected to be completed by mid-2016, weather permitting,” Mr Bailey said.

“The wide centreline treatment is being implemented at trouble spots along the highway as part of the Australian and Queensland Government’s $8.5 billion program of works to upgrade the Bruce Highway.

“The treatment is saving lives in Queensland, and was recognised as a leader in road safety at last year’s 3M–ACRS Diamond Road Safety Awards – an Australia wide road safety award focusing on innovation and effectiveness to save lives and injuries on road.”

Member for Hinkler Keith Pitt said the works would also allow more space for vehicles to pass other vehicles stopped on the side of the road.

“The delivery of this important piece of infrastructure is a step closer in delivering a safer, Bruce Highway in the Maryborough region,” Mr Pitt said.

“A wide centre line treatment will also provide greater separation between vehicles travelling in opposite directions, reducing the risk of head-on collisions.” 

 Member for Maryborough Bruce Saunders welcomed the improvements and encouraged motorists to always drive to conditions.

“This is another step forward in making the Bruce safer for Queensland drivers including local motorists and heavy vehicles,” Mr Saunders said.

“To carry out these works safely and efficiently, traffic controllers, single-lane closures and speed restrictions are being put in place as required. Works will generally be carried out between 6am and 6pm, Monday to Saturday.”

For further information about the project works visit www.tmr.qld.gov.au

The Bruce Highway Pig Creek and Little Pig Creek work is a jointly funded project by the Australian and Queensland Governments based on an 80:20 funding share.