Ministerial Statement: Rail overpass ready for traffic

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Minister for Main Roads
The Honourable Craig Wallace
08/05/2009

Rail overpass ready for traffic

The $17 million Mackay-Bucasia Road duplication project will reach a significant milestone on Monday, with traffic to be diverted on to the rail overpass north of Baxter Drive.

Main Roads Minister Craig Wallace said the completion of the rail overpass meant the end of the project was well within sight.

"Once traffic has been diverted on to the new rail overpass this Monday, there are only another few weeks of works before the project will be completely finished," Mr Wallace said.

"On completion, Mackay-Bucasia Road will be four lanes between the Bruce Highway and the Eimeo Road roundabout, increasing network efficiency and safety for motorists travelling between Mackay and the Northern Beaches.

"In addition to providing extra lanes on the western carriageway, the project also includes widening shoulders to cater for cyclists, improved drainage and a central median between the carriageways for increased safety."

Member for Whitsunday Jan Jarratt said asphalting works on the overpass and approaches were completed in late April.

"Linemarking and guardrail installation is currently being finalised in preparation for the traffic diversion on Monday," Ms Jarratt said.

"Some traffic restrictions will be in place from mid to late May while final works are completed between Phillip Street and Baxter Drive.

"This will include works within the central median and the laying of an open-graded, low-noise asphalt surfacing."

Ms Jarratt said motorists travelling regularly on Mackay-Bucasia Road had been extremely patient throughout the construction phase.

"The department would like to thank all motorists for their patience and cooperation during these important upgrades and I urge them to continue to drive with caution as the project wraps up," she said.

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