Urraween Road upgrade a strategic investment

 

A $5.1 million upgrade of Urraween Road near Hervey Bay is open for business.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Michael McCormack said the project received a $2.28 million contribution under the Australian Government’s Roads to Recovery program which improves access and supports safety, social and economic outcomes.

“The Australian Government is pleased to have supported this major investment. Urraween Road is a strategic east-west link servicing an expanding medical precinct, Hervey Bay TAFE college and growing residential developments,” Mr McCormack said.

Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads Mark Bailey said the Queensland Government had committed a further $914,000 to help fund the upgrade. 

“The project focused on reconstruction of Urraween Road between Nissen Street and Main Street and included earthworks, kerb and channel installation, drainage, footpath and pavement works, signage, line marking and will ultimately also feature solar lights,” Mr Bailey said.

Federal Member for Hinkler Keith Pitt said the project had delivered a two-lane road with a centre median that would improve traffic flow now and into the future.

“This upgrade is improving traffic flow and will help future-proof the local road network by providing for more intersection connections. It is part of a $15.2 million investment in the Fraser Coast region under Roads to Recovery through to the 2018−19 financial year,” Mr Pitt said.

Fraser Coast Regional Council Acting Mayor George Seymour said Urraween Road is a major connection which links the growing medical and education precinct around the Hervey Bay Hospital and St Stephens Private Hospital to the city and the rapidly developing suburbs south of the city centre.

“Urraween Road is the second major east west arterial link through the city and connects the western seaside suburbs to the airport and River Heads. We appreciate the financial help from the Australian and Queensland Governments to replace aging infrastructure to ensure we meet the growing needs of our region,” Cr Seymour said.

The Australian Government committed $2,280,308, the Queensland Government $914,129 and Fraser Coast Regional Council $1,932,252 to fund the upgrade.