Widening works set for Booyal stretch of Bruce Highway

Motorists will soon experience safer travelling conditions on the Bruce Highway between Loeskows and Inskip Roads at Booyal.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Warren Truss said a $700,000 pavement widening project currently underway will improve the seven kilometre stretch of the highway.

“A wide centre line treatment will be constructed to provide greater separation between vehicles travelling in opposite directions, reducing the potential for head-on collisions and allowing more space to pass vehicles stopped on the side of the road,” Mr Truss said.

Federal Member for Hinkler Keith Pitt said other works will include shoulder widening and improvements to embankments.

“The construction of a ‘clear zone’ on the side of the highway will also provide room for drivers to safely regain control of their vehicles if they actually leave the road,” Mr Pitt said.

Queensland Main Roads and Road Safety Minister Mark Bailey said the improvements will benefit motorists travelling the highway regularly.

“To carry out these works safely and efficiently, traffic controllers, single-lane closures and speed restrictions will be in place as required,” Mr Bailey said.

“Works will generally be carried out between 6am and 6pm, Monday to Saturday and the project is expected to be finished in mid-2016, weather permitting.”

The project is being jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland governments on an 80:20 basis.