Roads - articles and discussion

[JustSomeTrainGuy]

Take this with a grain of salt, but this just popped up on /r/Brisbane. The OP went to the effort of creating an account named "clem7danger" so it's unlike Reddit's usual sh*tposts

https://www.reddit.com/r/brisbane/comments/du7d8c/the_clem_7_has_severe_structural_issues_and_is_in/

Even if it isn't true, I'd like to see this blown out of proportion to see how Bailey handles it (or doesn't).

[red dragin]

Yeah, saw that.

Very light on specifics (is it the tunnel rings, cut and cover section, roadheader section).

Looks more like one of those "I'm above paying tolls" people, like the ones on RBT that carry on about the Police operating a business..... 

[achiruel]

The post has now been removed. You can still click on it and read the comments, but the OP just says [removed]

[ozbob]

Couriermail --> Infrastructure Australia approves Bruce Hwy widening from Caboolture to Sunshine Coast

THE State Government will widen the Bruce Highway from four to six lanes between Caboolture and Steve Irwin Way after the project was today given the green light by Infrastructure Australia.

Infrastructure Australia chief executive Romilly Madew welcomed the 11km upgrade of the highway as a Priority Project on the Infrastructure Priority List.

"In our rigorous assessment of the business case, we found the upgrade to be a sound investment that would not only reduce travel time and provide capacity for future growth, but also improve operational safety," she said.

The Bruce Highway is part of the National Land Transport Network and its role in connecting regional centres and facilitating significant freight movement has been identified by Infrastructure Australia as a key regional priority for Queensland.

The Sunshine Coast and Moreton Bay populations are anticipated to grow to more than 50 per cent higher than the 2011 levels by 2036.

Infrastructure Australia said without intervention, the highway would be severely impacted by the ongoing urban expansion and increasing road freight.

The 2019 Australian Infrastructure Audit, released in August this year, found this section of the Bruce Highway was expected to become the third most congested in southeast Queensland by 2031 in terms of total delay hours.

"This upgrade is a good example of how improving existing assets can be a better use of funds while still generating significant future benefits," Ms Madew said.

Ms Madew said the upgrade of this section would also improve road safety outcomes on the Bruce Highway.

"Right now, this section of the highway has the highest crash rate of the 60km section between Pine River and Caloundra," she said.

"Between 2012 and 2017, 52 crashes were recorded and as traffic increases we can only expect things to get worse. By 2031, crash rates are forecast to increase by 50 per cent."

The project will also include the replacement of 10 bridges (two carriageways) over Lagoon Creek, King Johns Creek, Six Mile Creek, Rose Creek and Beerburrum Creek.

The latest business case forms part of a large program of work for upgrading the Bruce Highway.

Infrastructure Australia is currently developing the 2020 Infrastructure Priority List, which is due for release early next year.

The updated Infrastructure Priority List is available at https://www.infrastructureaustralia.gov.au/

[ozbob]

Gold Coast Bulletin  --> Coomera Connector campaign: 'This road is within one kilometre of my house so that will suck."

A wave of protest is starting about the Coomera Connector with some residents concerned that the second M1 will create more noise, decrease their property values and destroy wetlands.

A wave of protest is starting about the Coomera Connector with some residents concerned that the second M1 will create more noise, decrease their property values and destroy wetlands.

Queensland Greens Gold Coast member and Coomera resident Tom Andraszek in a petition to State Parliament had called for the Coomera Connector project to be cancelled.

Residents on the Facebook page of northern-based councillor William Owen-Jones have also voiced concerns after attending the government's consultation sessions which on the weekend attracted hundreds of people at Westfield Helensvale.

Mr Andraszek in his petition said the $2.4 billion six-lane highway planned from Nerang to Stapleton in the north would impact on the "quality of life, health and wealth" of tens of thousands of residents.

He said the government should cancel the Coomera Connector and focus on improving public transport. He obtained signatures from 657 residents for his petition during September.

"To reduce congestion, the State should expand the rail network and make services more frequent and faster," he said.

"Train stations should be residential, commercial and business hubs. Safe cycleway networks should provide additional access to train stations and schools. Bus stops should be within a ten-minute walk for all city residents. Commuting should be cheaper than driving."

Mr Andraszek said he understood the petition would not be debated in the Parliament, but he would receive a response from Transport Minister Mark Bailey.

He said the second M2 would impact on important wetlands at Eagleby and Coombabah and wildlife corridors through Pimpama, Coomera and Helensvale.

"It's incredible what is going on at Coomera. If you live on Foxwell Road, block after block is being cleared. The lay of the land is changing," he said.

Cr Owen-Jones who is a strong supporter of the new transport infrastructure has encouraging residents to attend consultation organised by the government and fill out a survey after some had complained about the Coomera Connector.

A resident on his Facebook page in a post wrote: "I have mixed feelings about this road, on the one hand it will help traffic but it's also within one kilometre of my house so that will suck."

Cr Owen-Jones said he had received feedback from some residents who had complained about the quality of the State's survey on the second M1.

"I've just directed them towards talking to their State members. You can attach and say whatever you want (to the survey)," Cr Owen-Jones.

"They need to get the design right. I'm trying to get as many people as possible to complete the survey and be involved. I get that some people don't like it but the survey allows them to say whatever they like at the very end."

Transport Minister Mark Bailey said the Coomera Connector was a "much needed new road project" and the government was listening to feedback during public consultation.

"For north Gold Coast residents, it'll mean they will have an alternative to get to around the Coast without having to get on and off a busy M1 with 210,000 daily vehicles at 110km/h," he said.

"Public consultation for this project is happening right now, and we're listening to local feedback to make sure we get this new road project right.

"In Eagleby, for example, we've worked closely with the local MP Mel McMahon, residents and community groups to investigate potential alternative routes for the northern section, to take into account local concerns.

TMR was also working with the community, the Koala Advisory Council, other volunteer groups and government environmental agencies to develop a Coomera Connector environmental management plan, Mr Bailey said.

[verbatim9]

Brisbanetimes.com.au---> Bold Brisbane western bypass road back on the planning agenda with $7m

Governments are again exploring a Brisbane western bypass road – scrapped in 2008 – with $7 million confirmed to recommence planning 11 years on.

The federal government has allocated the money for a "North Brisbane-Bruce Highway Western Alternative" in new infrastructure funding negotiated with the Queensland government.

The preliminary study examines the "viability of constructing a western alternative corridor parallel to the Bruce Highway in north Brisbane".

Although details are scarce, concept is somewhat similar to former transport minister Paul Lucas' western bypass, which was scrapped in 2008 "because the numbers did not stack up"

That 2008 project had three streams. At one level it wanted to connect the Warrego Highway with the Bruce Highway, west of the Brisbane CBD.

Two routes were ruled out; one near Lake Wivenhoe and another just west of Mt Coot-tha.

The third option in 2008 included these proposals:

A future tunnel from Toowong to Everton Park (between the Western Freeway and Stafford Road)

A future road link from Stafford to Aspley (Trouts Road Corridor) that would connect with the Toowong-to-Everton Park tunnel

Upgrading Stafford Rd between Everton Park and Kedron, including constructing a tunnel for private vehicles while public transport priority would use Stafford Road

Protecting road corridors already preserved and planning future road upgrades to service Samford Valley and Moggill

"I want to make it clear that these are long-term options and will be subject to further analysis of traffic volumes, engineering and environmental considerations, costings and public consultation," Mr Lucas said in 2008.

The estimate was many of the ideas would be viable in the mid-2020s.

Legacy Way and other tunnels were preferred to a western bypass option for Brisbane.

Governments instead then backed the TransApex series of tunnel projects: the Clem7, Airport Link and Legacy Way tunnels, and Brisbane's underground rail project, the $5.4 billion Cross River Rail.

The 2019 "western bypass" concept is contained within new federal money announced on Wednesday for major road and rail projects in Queensland.

It was been bought forward after negotiations between Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk and Prime Minister Scott Morrison.

The RACQ said its brief understanding was the 2019 concept was different to the ideas floated in 2008.

The Queensland road lobby believed it concentrated on the northern Brisbane area and could be linked to growth around Petrie and the fast-growing Brisbane area.

The issue was raised with the office of Federal Infrastructure Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack, but it declined to return several calls for clarification.

[ozbob]

Brisbanetimes --> Congestion question open to $10m suggestion for Brisbane's north-west

Brisbane City Council will investigate solutions for congestion in the city's north-west, from Toowong to Bald Hills, with a $10 million business case to be announced on Wednesday.

Jointly funded by the council and the federal government, the business case will look at ways to improve travel throughout those suburbs, creating a network for commuters.

Major roads through those areas include Waterworks Road, Enoggera Road and Lutwyche Road, while some park-and-ride stations further west are in operation.

The north-west is dominated by LNP-held council wards, bar Deagon in the city's north, which is held by council Labor leader Jared Cassidy.

Lord mayor Adrian Schrinner said the council was acting on community requests for better public transport, cycling infrastructure, pedestrian links and other options for the North West Transport Network.

"We need a long-term plan to build the transport infrastructure our city needs while protecting our residential areas," he said.

The business case will be built upon community feedback and residents can participate in consultation sessions between November and February.

Cr Schrinner said he particularly wanted to hear from local residents on the situation around their roads and what needed to be done to ease congestion.

"Planning the future transport of Brisbane is both important and exciting, so I encourage everyone to let us know how we can make it easier for you to travel across Brisbane, be it by road, public transport, cycling or on foot," he said.

The business case for the North West Transport Network business case will be completed mid-2021.

This looks like an attempt to purloin the North West Transport Corridor to me ....

" ... Jointly funded by the council and the federal government ...  "

Purely coincidental the forthcoming elections ... 

[red dragin]

Re-birth of Route 2? - (forget the exact number)

The locals smacked it on the head in the early 90's, so the various local roads along the route where upgraded as a pseudo bypass.

Still appears here as Item 13 on the map
https://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/Projects/Name/W/Western-Brisbane-Transport-Network-Strategy

[James]

Re-birth of Route 2? - (forget the exact number)

The locals smacked it on the head in the early 90's, so the various local roads along the route where upgraded as a pseudo bypass.

Still appears here as Item 13 on the map
https://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/Projects/Name/W/Western-Brisbane-Transport-Network-Strategy

Route 20 was the proposal. Much of the proposed 'Route 20' ringroad now exists as Metroad 5, which is grossly unsuitable for its purpose.

I'm less against having a Toowong - Ashgrove - Everton Park - Aspley 'ring road' motorway (effectively the western equivalent of the Gateway Motorway), but it can't come at the expense of the NWTC running down Trouts Road.

[ozbob]

http://statements.qld.gov.au/Statement/2019/11/29/1b-m1-upgrade-to-shine-bright-like-a-diamond

Media Statements
Minister for Transport and Main Roads

The Honourable Mark Bailey

Friday, November 29, 2019

$1b M1 upgrade to shine bright like a diamond

Gold Coasters have been given their first look at plans for the city's $1 billion M1 Varsity Lakes to Tugun upgrade set to get underway next year.

New images are giving motorists a sneak peek at the upgrade from Varsity Lakes to Tugun. It includes the new Northbound carriageway across the Mudgeeraba Creek.

Minister for Population, Cities and Urban Infrastructure Alan Tudge said the vital piece of infrastructure will bust congestion and better connect communities in the region.

"Shovels will hit the ground next year on the project, which will be delivered in three packages," Mr Tudge said.

"It's expected this will create more than 800 jobs and be five times the size of the current M1 upgrade at Mudgeeraba."

It will feature the region's first Diverging Diamond Interchange and more lanes for the 10km stretch plus upgrades to the Burleigh Heads, Tallebudgera and Palm Beach exits.

Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads Mark Bailey said the upgrade was part of the Queensland Government's jointly-funded $2.3 billion commitment to building a better M1 and supporting more than 2,000 jobs during construction.

"Close to 150,000 Queenslanders are seeing progress on the M1 every day," Mr Bailey said.

"This is a project five times the size of the of M1 upgrade at Mudgeeraba, which will create more than 800 jobs for the city of the Gold Coast."

"The Queensland Government is building a better M1, and we're gearing up for the future with our plans for the Coomera Connector and a future rail corridor as part of this $1 billion upgrade."

Federal Member for McPherson Karen Andrews said the upgrades to the Gold Coast's southern stretch of the M1 were vital for improving freight efficiency and getting locals home sooner and safer.

"I'm not interested in just pushing the bottleneck further south, we need to fix the M1 all the way through to Tugun, and that's what we're doing," Ms Andrews said.

"Just last week, the Morrison Government announced $45 million of Federal funding will be brought forward to fast-track those works."

The $207.3 million M1 upgrade has been jointly funded with the Australian Government committing $110 million and the Queensland Government $97.3 million.

The upgrade will also include:

Building a new service road bridge over Tallebudgera Creek connecting a new western service road (one lane each way) between Palm Beach (Exit 92) and Tallebudgera (Exit 89)

Installing Smart Motorway technologies between Varsity Lakes (Exit 85) and Tugun (Exit 95), and retrofitting these technologies between Nerang and Mudgeeraba

Preserving the corridor for a future rail extension south of Varsity Lakes.

Significant environmental improvements will also feature in the upgrade, including a passage under the motorway to reconnect fauna to the Burleigh to Springbrook bioregional wildlife corridor, improved fish passage in waterways and through culverts, fauna fencing, and koala habitat and fodder tree plantings.

ENDS

Link to download images and footage: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/ruhlvjc88j98lno/AAAZa85yj2EI9zd4tB8EjRkta?dl=0 (external site)

[ozbob]

Couriermail --> Councillor's push to build new Brisbane tunnel

AN INDEPENDENT councillor has called on Brisbane City Council to embark on a feasibility study for a tunnel that would run under Ipswich Rd and bypass Annerley.

But the council yesterday declined to say if it had considered undertaking a feasibility study for a tunnel under the busy southside thoroughfare.

Independent Councillor Nicole Johnston, whose Tennyson Ward is bordered by Ipswich Rd, said that action was needed to address the safety and congestion concerns along the road.

"We need innovative solutions along Ipswich Rd that gets through-traffic efficiently to its destination and reclaims surface streets for local traffic, pedestrians and cyclists," she told The Courier-Mail.

"A Nundah-style bypass tunnel (formally named George Bridges Tunnel) under Annerley Junction may be just the catalyst needed to spark urban renewal and reunite and revitalise Annerley.

"The safest and best option is to look at moving through- traffic underground and reclaiming surface streets for local traffic movement."

Cr Johnston said she had viewed council documents that showed a suggestion had been made to the council to conduct a pre-feasibility study for a tunnel under ­Ipswich Rd.

However, when asked yesterday if it had ever considered undertaking a feasibility study for a tunnel under Ipswich Rd in the past two years, the council refused to say.

Instead, Infrastructure chair David McLachlan insisted that council was not undertaking a feasibility study and that council officers had "no record" of briefing Cr Johnston about such a proposal.

Cr McLachlan said that the administration rejected Cr Johnston's push to create a tunnel there, which he claimed would "carve up the Annerley community".

"There is no current plan to widen Ipswich Rd and no budget proposed to progress such a concept," he said.

"In 2018, council completed a pedestrian safety review for Ipswich Rd as part of its award-winning Move Safe Brisbane project and has progressed recommendations from that review, none of which involve widening Ipswich Rd."

Moorooka Ward councillor Steve Griffiths agreed with Cr Johnston's contention that Ipswich Rd was already struggling with congestion.

"Cr Johnston and I are calling for Council to immediately develop proposals for the upgrade of Ipswich Rd, including the option of a tunnel so we can take these out for consultation with the community," he said.

[verbatim9]

After more than a decade, locals hope a tunnel bypassing Annerley's Ipswich Road is one step closer to reality. Council documents reveal public planners recommend the tunnel, but the Lord Mayor isn't so sure. https://t.co/VZ3A1cpmr5 @G_Chumbley #7NEWS https://t.co/WRTN7Y76MD

https://twitter.com/7NewsBrisbane/status/1201779445054337024

[verbatim9]

We've just released the designs for the upgrade of the Pacific Motorway from Varsity Lakes to Burleigh.

Works will include the Gold Coast's first diverging diamond interchange that will help reduce congestion and improve travel times.

See more here: https://t.co/2wUWBAcrxk https://t.co/EMGhVFx73p

https://twitter.com/TMRQld/status/1201714815233744896

[ozbob]

Brisbanetimes --> Congestion question open to $10m suggestion for Brisbane's north-west

Brisbane City Council will investigate solutions for congestion in the city's north-west, from Toowong to Bald Hills, with a $10 million business case to be announced on Wednesday.

Jointly funded by the council and the federal government, the business case will look at ways to improve travel throughout those suburbs, creating a network for commuters.

Major roads through those areas include Waterworks Road, Enoggera Road and Lutwyche Road, while some park-and-ride stations further west are in operation.

The north-west is dominated by LNP-held council wards, bar Deagon in the city's north, which is held by council Labor leader Jared Cassidy.

Lord mayor Adrian Schrinner said the council was acting on community requests for better public transport, cycling infrastructure, pedestrian links and other options for the North West Transport Network.

"We need a long-term plan to build the transport infrastructure our city needs while protecting our residential areas," he said.

The business case will be built upon community feedback and residents can participate in consultation sessions between November and February.

Cr Schrinner said he particularly wanted to hear from local residents on the situation around their roads and what needed to be done to ease congestion.

"Planning the future transport of Brisbane is both important and exciting, so I encourage everyone to let us know how we can make it easier for you to travel across Brisbane, be it by road, public transport, cycling or on foot," he said.

The business case for the North West Transport Network business case will be completed mid-2021.

This looks like an attempt to purloin the North West Transport Corridor to me ....

" ... Jointly funded by the council and the federal government ...  "

Purely coincidental the forthcoming elections ... 

Couriermail Quest --> Row over toll road through Brisbane suburbs as north west transport network study is launched

Claims that a Brisbane City Council transport survey is part of a push to build a massive new toll road through the northern suburbs have been rejected by the LNP.

Labor's candidate for the McDowall ward, Liam Culverhouse, said the LNP council was trying to play a game of "smoke and mirrors" with residents.

Mr Culverhouse said it was concealing a link between their federally funded "north west transport network" business case study and their intent to use the North West Transport Corridor.

Last week the council launched a consultation process on Brisbane's north west transport network which included public information sessions and an online survey.

The study area includes Toowong to the south, Bald Hills and Bracken Ridge to the north and Chermside and Wooloowin to the east.

Councillor Tracy Davis (LNP, McDowall) said she did not know how Mr Culverhouse came to his view.

"I think Mr Culverhouse, sadly, is trying to be a little mischievous and political when this is about a range of options that people can put forward in order to be considered for the development of a business case," Cr Davis said.

"They'll be able to talk about the things that are working and things that need improvement.

"It's not just about roads, it is about public transport, cycling and pedestrians.

"The corridor Mr Culverhouse is speaking about is a State Government corridor that has been gazetted since 1962 and nothing's happened with it."

The council's 2019/20 Budget revealed the Federal Government had committed $10 million to the development of a business case to reduce congestion in the north west.

When plans for the study were announced in June Cr Andrew Wines (LNP – Enoggera) said it was not about building the north west corridor and surface options were not being considered.

Mr Culverhouse said a toll road through the corridor would be "devastating" for the community.

"It's going to cut our suburb in half," he said.

He said a tunnel would cost $10-15 billion and thought there was better value investing in existing roads, such as Maudrell Tce, the Beckett Rd roundabout, Rode Rd and Hamilton Rd, and in public transport to take cars off roads.

He also feared it would move congestion to Stafford Rd and Gympie Rd at Bald Hills, where such a road would meet the Gympie Arterial Rd.

Feedback will be accepted until 11.59pm on February 7.

You can do it onlineor write to Transport Planning and Operations, Brisbane City Council, GPO Box 1434, Brisbane.

There will be several consultation sessions:

■ Chermside - Wednesday, December 4, 3-6pm, Chermside Library

■ Mitchelton - Thursday, December 5, 5-8pm, Brookside Shopping Centre, Osborne Rd

■ Ashgrove - Saturday, December 7, 9am-noon, Ashgrove Library

■ Grange - Wednesday, December 11, 3-6pm, Grange Library

■ Everton Park - Thursday, December 12, 3-6pm, Everton Park Library

■ Toowong - Saturday, December 14, 9am-noon, Mt Coot-tha Library

■ Stafford - Monday, January 20, 9am-noon, Stafford City shopping centre, Stafford Rd

■ Toowong - Tuesday, January 21, 9am-noon, Toowong Village, Sherwood Rd

■ Aspley - Wednesday, January 22, 9am-noon, Aspley Hypermarket, Albany Creek Rd

■ Taigum - Friday, January 24, 9am-noon, Taigum Square Shopping Centre, Beams Rd

■ Carseldine - Thursday, January 30, 5-8pm, Carseldine Central, Beams Rd

[ozbob]

https://www.parliament.qld.gov.au/documents/tableOffice/questionsAnswers/2019/1922-2019.pdf

Question on Notice
No. 1922
Asked on Thursday 28 November 2019

MR E SORENSEN ASKED MINISTER FOR TRANSPORT AND MAIN ROADS (HON M BAILEY)

QUESTION:

With reference to the Auditor General's report No. 4 for 2017-18 Integrated Transport Planning
wherein it indicates that DTMR had a $4b renewal backlog as at 30 June 2017—
Will the Minister advise (a) if an updated backlog figure has now been calculated for 30 June 2019
and (b) could the backlog figure be separated out by regions?

ANSWER:

I thank the Member for Hervey Bay for the question.

The Palaszczuk Government is committed to maintaining a safe and resilient road network for all
Queenslanders. That is why our government invested a record $4.13 billion for maintenance,
preservation and operation of the state-controlled road (SCR) network in the Queensland
Transport and Roads Investment Program (QTRIP) 2019–20 to 2022–23.

Queensland has the longest SCR network of any Australian state or territory. As at 30 June 2019,
the SCR network comprised 33,369 kilometres of roads, including 398 kilometres of motorway,
3919 kilometres of unsealed roads, 3119 bridges, 4804 major culverts and 32 tunnel sections.
The length of the busway network is 29 kilometres.

The National Land Transport Network (NLTN) component of the SCR network comprises
4996 kilometres for which the Australian Government has primary funding responsibility.
The first Total Asset Management Plan prepared in 2014 in response to the 2013 Commission of
Audit Recommendation 41 predicted state road network renewal requirements (existing backlog,
plus predicted network renewal needs over the following 10-years) of $7.4 billion by 2024.
Not only did the former Newman LNP Government fail to increase investment in maintenance,
but it also cut more than $600 million from the 2012–13 to 2015–16 QTRIP and it sacked over
700 staff from RoadTek.

While the Palaszczuk Government has been steadily increasing its commitment to roads and
transport investment, with its fourth record investment in QTRIP out of five budgets, the Australian
Government has refused to properly fund maintenance of the NLTN in Queensland, by only
contributing some 50 per cent towards related maintenance costs.

The increased Palaszczuk Government investment has ensured that, since 30 June 2016, the
total length of the SCR network which requires rehabilitation or resurfacing, has been reduced by
643 kilometres (as at 30 June 2019). This comprises 854 kilometres that has been eliminated
from the backlog of road-resurfacing treatments, offset by an additional 211 kilometres requiring
rehabilitation.

Building on the extra $100 million allocation provided for maintenance, preservation and operation
activities in last year's QTRIP 2018–19 to 2021–22, an additional $48 million has been allocated
to the maintenance works program in the QTRIP 2019–20 to 2022–23.
By comparison, the current four-year QTRIP (2019–20 to 2022–23) represents an increase of
$1.36 billion (or 49 per cent) over that approved by the Newman LNP Government for
maintenance, preservation and operation activities which totalled $2.77 billion in its last four-year
QTRIP published in 2014-15.

Once again, the Palaszczuk Government is doing the heavy lifting to make up for the Federal
LNP's failure to fairly fund maintenance on the NLTN in Queensland, and is continuing to repair
the damage caused by the Newman LNP Government's cuts.

Any maintenance backlog on the SCR network is being effectively managed by the Department
of Transport and Main Roads, assisted by increased investment by the Palaszczuk Labor
Government. It is hardly surprising that the renewal backlog has grown from that estimated in
the first Commission of Audit report, considering the cuts imposed by the Newman LNP
Government and the refusal of the Federal LNP to properly fund maintenance on the NLTN.
It is important to note that several factors impact on the estimated value of the backlog. For
example, between 30 June 2016 and 30 June 2018, the cost of asphalt and other seal treatments
increased by up to 33 per cent, particularly in urban areas and on highly trafficked roads.

I can confirm the estimated value of the SCR network backlog as at 30 June 2019 is
approximately $5.418 billion.

Further, outlined below is a breakdown of the estimated backlog value as at 30 June 2019 by regional areas.

Far North Queensland $308 million
North Queensland $831 million
South East Queensland $2,445 million
South West Queensland $894 million
Central Queensland $940 million

(Total) $5,418 million

[verbatim9]

It's a  uphill challenge to try and get people out of their cars and onto Public Transport bikes and scooters. It's been met with negative critcism from drivers

An international plan to slash speed limits on suburban roads will be discussed at a global summit of world leaders next year. The move is designed to cut road deaths and force more people out of their cars and onto public transport. https://t.co/VZ3A1cpmr5 #7NEWS https://t.co/oD4V97860U

https://twitter.com/7NewsBrisbane/status/1208306766187880448

[verbatim9]

It's a  uphill challenge to try and get people out of their cars and onto Public Transport bikes and scooters. It's been met with negative critcism from drivers

An international plan to slash speed limits on suburban roads will be discussed at a global summit of world leaders next year. The move is designed to cut road deaths and force more people out of their cars and onto public transport. https://t.co/VZ3A1cpmr5 #7NEWS https://t.co/oD4V97860U

https://twitter.com/7NewsBrisbane/status/1208306766187880448

^^As time goes on and Public and Active Transport trips become faster with segregated paths and mass transit corridors., people will see the light and change modes

Re: The 30kph debate; Cyclists and sometimes private scooters travel faster than 30kph. 40kph is more realistic when reducing vehicle speed to travel slower than 50kph.

[James]

It's a  uphill challenge to try and get people out of their cars and onto Public Transport bikes and scooters. It's been met with negative critcism from drivers

An international plan to slash speed limits on suburban roads will be discussed at a global summit of world leaders next year. The move is designed to cut road deaths and force more people out of their cars and onto public transport. https://t.co/VZ3A1cpmr5 #7NEWS https://t.co/oD4V97860U

https://twitter.com/7NewsBrisbane/status/1208306766187880448

This proposal is just bizarre and strange.

If you look at where most of the road fatalities are occurring, 85% of crash fatalities occur in 60km/h+ zones. This proposal would only affect suburban streets where there is no posted speed limit as well, so in reality the amount of accidents affected by this change would be closer to 6-7% - and there is no guarantee that this will reduce the number of road fatalities anyway.

It is all fine and dandy for European countries where the typical density is for townhouses or apartment blocks, with streets based off 1800s design standards (with geometry and width to match) and which are often are wet & icy, but to have these sorts of rules being implemented in spread-out suburban sprawl is just strange.

Secondly, enforcing this rule will be quite difficult - if speed is an issue, traffic calming devices and roundabouts work just fine at reducing speeds where it is required without draconian 'apply all' rules. Finally, and most importantly - how does lowering speed limits encourage people to use PT? The bus will be travelling just as slowly as a car...

(Source for crash figures: https://www.budgetdirect.com.au/car-insurance/research/car-accident-statistics.html)

[#Metro]

Why do people have to be "forced" to use PT?

This is just forcing rotten apples down people's throats.

Fix network quality, people will come and happily pay.

[verbatim9]

Why do people have to be "forced" to use PT?

This is just forcing rotten apples down people's throats.

Fix network quality, people will come and happily pay.

Buses will be slow too if 30kph is implemented?

Slow commutes equate to less recreational time, less family time and less productivity. 

James's post sums it all up

[achiruel]

I do agree to some extent with lower speed limits. Certainly in the street I live in, 30km/h would be a reasonable speed for various road geometry reasons. Most residents of my street drive around that speed anyway. There's a couple that don't, and several others consider that dangerous.

I also think there's some merit in having lower speed areas where there is lots of pedestrian/cyclist activity.

As an example, in Logan Central, I would make the area bounded by Wembley Rd, Station Rd, Ewing Rd, Defiance Rd & North Rd a 40 km/h area.

https://imgur.com/a/u3Rkpkw

[verbatim9]

Brisbanetimes.com.au----> Companies will put driver's licence on your smartphone.

Lucy Stone
By Lucy Stone
January 2, 2020 — 9.20pm

Queensland drivers are a step closer to having a digital licence, with the state government announcing two Brisbane companies have been contracted to develop a digital licence app.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said app developers Code Heroes and tech services specialists Aliva would work on the program, with a trial on the Fraser Coast in the coming months.

Queensland driver licences may soon be digital.
Queensland driver licences may soon be digital.CREDIT:QUEENSLAND GOVERNMENT

Code Heroes will co-develop the licence program alongside global technology company Thales Group, and Aliva will provide support and training.

Maryborough and Hervey Bay on the Fraser Coast were selected as trial sites for the digital licence app mid last year, in an optional roll-out for residents to ditch the familiar yellow plastic cards.

The trial will focus on learner licences, recreational marine licences and photo identification cards.

Queensland is the third state to trial digital licences. NSW and South Australia have rolled out digital licences; in neither state is the digital app compulsory.

Mr Bailey said Queenslanders used driver's licences in many different ways, from photo identification on a night out to applying for a rental property.

"This will be an app designed by Queenslanders for Queenslanders," Mr Bailey said.

"The way we use licences today is different from when they were first introduced more than 100 years ago in paper.

"It's great that we've been able to partner with local businesses to create technology that means Queenslanders can access photo ID on their phone, just like they can with their debit card or event tickets."

Mr Bailey emphasised digital security as a feature of the program, noting personal information would be locked behind passwords and biometric smartphone features such as fingerprint ID.

"Unlike a physical driver licence, the Digital Licence App gives you the control over how much information you allow a third party to see, copy and retain, when you share it with them," he said.

Code Heroes chief executive Brendt Sheen said his company had developed apps for QUT and the Queensland Museum.

"Now we'll be working with one of the biggest transport and security tech companies to create an app that could even expand to other services in the future, including updating details, renewing their licence and paying their registration fees," he said.

Aliva chief executive David Hawley said the company was excited to be involved in providing training and support for the "landmark initiative".

Driver's licences were introduced in Queensland in 1910 after a fatal accident in Fortitude Valley caused public concern that the driver was known to police for poor driving

[verbatim9]

The massive transformation and widening project for the M1 at Logan.

[verbatim9]

Brisbanetimes.com.au----> Companies will put driver's licence on your smartphone.

Lucy Stone
By Lucy Stone
January 2, 2020 — 9.20pm

Queensland drivers are a step closer to having a digital licence, with the state government announcing two Brisbane companies have been contracted to develop a digital licence app.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said app developers Code Heroes and tech services specialists Aliva would work on the program, with a trial on the Fraser Coast in the coming months.

Queensland driver licences may soon be digital.
Queensland driver licences may soon be digital.CREDIT:QUEENSLAND GOVERNMENT

Code Heroes will co-develop the licence program alongside global technology company Thales Group, and Aliva will provide support and training.

Maryborough and Hervey Bay on the Fraser Coast were selected as trial sites for the digital licence app mid last year, in an optional roll-out for residents to ditch the familiar yellow plastic cards.

The trial will focus on learner licences, recreational marine licences and photo identification cards.

Queensland is the third state to trial digital licences. NSW and South Australia have rolled out digital licences; in neither state is the digital app compulsory.

Mr Bailey said Queenslanders used driver's licences in many different ways, from photo identification on a night out to applying for a rental property.

"This will be an app designed by Queenslanders for Queenslanders," Mr Bailey said.

"The way we use licences today is different from when they were first introduced more than 100 years ago in paper.

"It's great that we've been able to partner with local businesses to create technology that means Queenslanders can access photo ID on their phone, just like they can with their debit card or event tickets."

Mr Bailey emphasised digital security as a feature of the program, noting personal information would be locked behind passwords and biometric smartphone features such as fingerprint ID.

"Unlike a physical driver licence, the Digital Licence App gives you the control over how much information you allow a third party to see, copy and retain, when you share it with them," he said.

Code Heroes chief executive Brendt Sheen said his company had developed apps for QUT and the Queensland Museum.

"Now we'll be working with one of the biggest transport and security tech companies to create an app that could even expand to other services in the future, including updating details, renewing their licence and paying their registration fees," he said.

Aliva chief executive David Hawley said the company was excited to be involved in providing training and support for the "landmark initiative".

Driver's licences were introduced in Queensland in 1910 after a fatal accident in Fortitude Valley caused public concern that the driver was known to police for poor driving

Ausdroid.net---> Digital Licences will be recognised in 18 nations including the UK, France and the USA

However for those who do want to travel, it's not all bad news, the Queensland app will be the first in Australia based on the international ISO standard, as such it will be recognised in 18 nations including the UK, France and the USA. Exactly how individual police officers and public officials respond to them will likely be varied for many years.

The roll out across the state is expected to be completed by the end of 2020. So Victoria, Tasmania, Western Australia, Northern Territory and Australian Capital Territory..... who's next?

[verbatim9]

Couriermail.com.au---> South East Qld to receive major infrastructure and transport funding boost

QLD POLITICS
56kmh in 100 zone — our most urgent road upgrades
A new report warns that average speeds on one of southeast Queensland's most critical arterial roads will drop to 56km/h as it identifies the state roads that are a "high priority" to fix.

Matthew Killoran, The Courier-Mail
Subscriber only

February 26, 2020 12:00am

COURIERMAIL.COM.AU1:27
South East Qld to receive major infrastructure and transport funding boost
The transport system in South East Queensland will benefit from a major infrastructure and transport boost from the Federal Government. Under the...
CONDITIONS on a major road network in Queensland linking freight routes and communities has deteriorated to the point it has become a national high priority to fix, Infrastructure Australia will reveal today.

Meanwhile, the independent body is continuing to warn that average speeds will drop on the Pacific Motorway at Logan to just 56km/hour unless action is taken.

The Infrastructure Australia report outlines fixing the state's National Land Transport Network as Queensland's only new "high priority" initiative to be listed.


Nearly a fifth of the 5000km road network, which connects Mount Isa, Longreach, and Cairns to Brisbane and beyond, has been identified for maintenance and rehabilitation.

The road network includes the Flinders, Barkly, Landsborough and Bruce highways.

"The poor condition of roads has increased costs to communities and the freight industry by increasing travel times, creating safety risks and reducing network resilience," the report says.

It says the Queensland Government has identified 885km as high priority for maintenance, with the cost to rise significantly if not addressed urgently.

No total funding required was listed.

Infrastructure Australia also listed as new priorities, but lower ranked, the Gold Coast light rail stage 3A to Burleigh Heads, and $2 billion in upgrades to the Bruce Highway and Pacific Motorway.

Average speeds on the Pacific Motorway at Logan will drop from 70km/h to just 56km/h by 2041 if to Eight Mile Plains to Daisy Hill section is not fixed by adding additional lanes.

The section between Varsity Lakes and Tugun is also recommended for upgrade, as well as sections of the Bruce Highway at the Sunshine Coast and at Cairns between Edmonton and Gordonvale.

"Without intervention, this traffic growth would lead to severe congestion and poorer safety conditions on the road," the report states.

The case for the Gold Coast light rail stage 3A depends on urban renewal and increased urban density in the areas to make it viable.

[verbatim9]

There's fresh doubt tonight over the future of the proposed "second M1". The congestion busting project failed to make a priority list for Federal funding which is compiled by Infrastructure Australia. https://t.co/VZ3A1cpmr5 #7NEWS https://t.co/zma3SNds2y

https://twitter.com/7NewsBrisbane/status/1232591603035852800

[ozbob]

http://statements.qld.gov.au/Statement/2020/2/27/contract-call-out-for-next-jobboosting-bruce-upgrade-between-brisbane-and-sunshine-coast

Media Statements

Minister for Transport and Main Roads
The Honourable Mark Bailey

Thursday, February 27, 2020

Contract call out for next job-boosting Bruce upgrade between Brisbane and Sunshine Coast

Contracts are being advertised to deliver the next major Bruce Highway upgrade planned between Brisbane and Gympie.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the $662.5 million upgrade between Caboolture-Bribie Island Road and Steve Irwin Way (Exit 163) would widen the highway from four to six lanes.

"The upgrade will also include the construction of 10 new three-lane bridges at five notorious creek crossings," Mr McCormack said.

"The Expression of Interest process is the next major step in this project, which will future-proof one of Australia's most significant freight corridors."

Queensland Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the upgrade, expected to support up to 700 jobs during construction, was one of a series of major Bruce Highway projects that had funding locked in.

"The upgrade between Caloundra Road and Sunshine Motorway has really started to take shape and has transformed that key turn-off of the Sunshine Coast," Mr Bailey said.

"Later this year, construction will start on the final major upgrade between Cooroy and Curra, as well on the Mons Road and Maroochydore Road interchanges.

"Together, these projects worth more than two billion dollars and are set to transform about 140kms of the Bruce Highway from Caboolture to Curra in the coming years, keeping pace with growth and providing a quicker trip to the beach for visitors to the region."

Federal Member for Longman Terry Young said the Caboolture-Bribie Island Road to Steve Irwin Way project would upgrade about 11 kilometres of the Bruce Highway from a four-lane to a six-lane, divided carriageway between the Caboolture-Bribie Island Road interchange and the southern end of Steve Irwin Way.

"Improving flood immunity on the Bruce is critical to supporting our freight network and maintaining access to our communities during severe weather events," Mr Young said.

"The Federal Government is proud to be funding 80 per cent of this project. It forms part of our record $100 billion pipeline of infrastructure projects across the nation getting people to where they need to be sooner and safer."

Andrew Wallace the Federal Member for Fisher said the project would deliver 10 new three-lane bridges at Lagoon Creek, King Johns Creek, Six Mile Creek, Rose Creek and Beerburrum Creek.

"Those bridges will be built to withstand 1 in 100-year flood levels," Mr Wallace said.

"Reducing the highway's potential to be cut off during major flood events is a key part of the design in this upgrade.

"These works will not only improve the highway's capacity and flood immunity, but also increase the shoulder width to allow vehicles to safely pull over in case of a crash or emergency while allowing traffic to continue to flow."

The $662.5 million Bruce Highway Upgrade Caboolture-Bribie Island Road to Steve Irwin Way (Exit 163) project is funded on an 80/20 basis by the Australian ($530 million) and Queensland ($132.5 million) Governments.

This project is being delivered under the Bruce Highway Upgrade Program (BHUP), a program delivering $12.6 billion of works over a 15-year period.

For further information on the Bruce Highway Upgrade – Caboolture-Bribie Island Road to Steve Irwin Way (Exit 163) project, visit www.tmr.qld.gov.au/CBIR2SIW.

TENDER PROCESS:

Pre-qualified contractors have been invited to submit an EOI to participate in delivering the project.

Following the EOI, the shortlisted contractors will be invited to tender on the two main construction contracts.

Two substantial construction contracts will be awarded to separate companies.

The tender period for the first contact will close mid-year with construction expected to start later this year (2020).

ENDS

[ozbob]

Couriermail --> 22 Qld intersections with most deaths and injuries

New data has revealed the Queensland intersections that have had the most serious and fatal crashes over the past three years.

Ranking,    Serious Crashes, Serious Casualties, Location

1   9   20   Paradise Is/Clifford St Rememberance Dr (Gold Coast Hwy) Surfers  Paradise, Gold Coast City
2   9   14   Kedron Park Rd (East - West Arterial Rd) Lutwyche Rd (East - West  Arterial Rd) Kedron, Brisbane City
3   8   14   Southport - Nerang Rd Olsen Av/Currumburra Rd (Labrador - Carrara Rd)  Molendinar, Gold Coast City
4   8   12   Greenbank Rd Mt Lindesay Hwy North Maclean, Logan City
5   8   11   City Rd (Beenleigh Connection Rd) Logan St (Beenleigh Connection Rd)  Beenleigh, Logan City
6   8   10   Deeragun Rd Geaney La Deeragun, Townsville City
7   7   12   Old Gympie Rd/Beerburrum Rd Pumicestone Rd (Beerburrum Rd) Caboolture,  Moreton Bay Region
8   6   10   Main St Chapel Rd/Maggs Hill Rd Nikenbah, Fraser Coast Region
9   6   10   Bruce Hwy Eastern Service Rd/Wayper Wy Deception Bay Rd Deception Bay,  Moreton Bay Region
10   6   10   Beaudesert - Beenleigh Rd Mundoolun Connection Rd Tamborine, Scenic Rim  Region
11   6   8   Compton Rd Persse Rd Runcorn, Brisbane City
12   6   7   Cavendish Rd Holdsworth St/Kitchener Rd Coorparoo, Brisbane City
13   6   7   Reef St/Mary St Weyba Rd Noosaville, Noosa Shire
14   6   6   Pumicestone Rd (Beerburrum Rd) Dances Rd/D'aguilar Hwy Caboolture,  Moreton Bay Region
15   6   6   Ponsonby St/Junction Tce Ipswich Rd Annerley, Brisbane City
16   6   6   Western Fwy/Centenary Mwy Mt Coot Tha Rd Mount Coot-tha, Brisbane City
17   5   8   Chambers Flat Rd School Rd Park Ridge, Logan City
18   5   8   Clarke Rd/Lindenthal Rd Park Ridge Rd Park Ridge, Logan City
19   5   8   Gipps St Wickham St Fortitude Valley, Brisbane City
20   5   8   Scottsdale Dr Stapley Dr/Bayswater Av Varsity Lakes, Gold Coast
21   5   8   Glenella - Richmond Rd Holts Rd Glenella, Mackay Region
22   5   8   Wises Rd Darby Cl/Kayleigh Dr Buderim, Sunshine Coast Region

[verbatim9]

We've been given a first look at the M1 upgrade on the southern Gold Coast. https://t.co/VZ3A1cpmr5 @AmadaAbate #qldtraffic #7NEWS https://t.co/lVte3mRC6l

https://twitter.com/7NewsBrisbane/status/1235119444403208192

[verbatim9]

^^At least the rail.corridor has been preserved to Coolangatta.

[verbatim9]

It was Scott Morrison's multibillion-dollar promise to make the drive home quicker, but not a single dollar has been spent on a program to ease traffic jams.

Tonight, the Minister responsible is feeling the heat. @jekearsley #AusPol #9News https://t.co/OKsh59kao9

https://twitter.com/9NewsQueensland/status/1235119942367727616

[verbatim9]

Ooops, What a debacle!

[verbatim9]

More encouragement in regards to driving private vehicles and emissions/pollution from those vehicles with the crash in the oil price. One step forward two steps back.😀

https://edition.cnn.com/2020/03/09/business/oil-price-crash-explainer/index.html

[verbatim9]

Couriermail.com.au---Pacific Motorway upgrade completed ahead of schedule

It's been years in the making, now the final touches have been put on a $200 million dollar upgrade of the Pacific Motorway that experts say will shave chunks of time off the daily commutes of those living south of Brisbane. SEE THE VIDEO

The final touches are being put on the Pacific Motorway merge from the M3 at Eight Mile Plains/

COMMUTE times between Brisbane and the Gold Coast are expected to be reduced following the completion of an almost $200 million upgrade on the M1.

The congestion-busting move has cost $195.3 million and taken several years, but has finished ahead of schedule, the State Government says.

Another large-scale upgrade will now begin on the M1, between Eight Mile Plains and Daisy Hill, worth $749 million.

Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said works were on track to wrap up in the coming days, marking an important milestone.

"The highway between Brisbane and the Gold Coast is usually one of the busiest stretches of road in Australia and building a better M1 is a priority," Ms Palaszczuk told The Courier-Mail.

"I'm proud that with the Federal Government we've successfully delivered a much-needed upgrade at the Gateway Merge, which as anyone knows who drives through there every day was badly needed."

"The upgrade will bust congestion along the Gateway Motorway to Rochedale Road, helping with freight movement along the M1 corridor and improve travel time, reliability and safety," Mr Tudge said.

Following the completion of the M1/M3 Gateway merge, preliminary works have now begun on the next stage of the M1 North upgrade's $749 million Eight Mile Plains to Daisy Hill project.

Queensland Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said it would create more than 720 jobs for Queenslanders.

"The construction industry plays an essential role in keeping the state's economy powering so we can't lose momentum delivering our record investment in major infrastructure for Queensland.

Bielby Holdings has been awarded the first package of work on the Eight Mile Plains to Daisy Hill upgrade, which will stretch about 3.5 kilometres from Sports Drive, Underwood, to the Gateway Motorway interchange.

Bielby Holdings managing director Adam Edwards said they were delighted to secure the Sports Drive to Gateway Motorway package of work.

"We are thrilled to continue our relationship with the Department of Transport and Main Roads, as we build a vital piece of infrastructure for southeast Queensland," Mr Edwards said.

Further south, the Pacific Motorway (M1) upgrade between Varsity Lakes and Tugun is now also a step closer to construction.

The contract to upgrade the first section between Varsity Lakes and Burleigh has been awarded to Seymour Whyte Constructions, which will support almost 850 jobs.

Works are due to start on the $1.03 billion M1 Varsity Lakes to Tugun upgrade in mid-2020, after the current upgrade between Mudgeeraba and Varsity Lakes is completed.

[verbatim9]

Brisbanetimes---> Calls for freeze on toll road, vehicle registration, public transport price hikes

[ozbob]

http://statements.qld.gov.au/Statement/2020/5/15/new-sumners-bridge-opens-continues-jobs-push

Media Statements

JOINT STATEMENT
Premier and Minister for Trade
The Honourable Annastacia Palaszczuk

Minister for Transport and Main Roads
The Honourable Mark Bailey

Friday, May 15, 2020

New Sumners bridge opens, continues jobs push

The Palaszczuk Government's $80 million congestion-tackling Sumners Road overpass project continues to gain momentum, with the first of two new bridges now complete.

It's part of a multi-billion dollar pipeline of infrastructure projects being built right now by the state government, supporting thousands of jobs during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said it's projects like the Sumners Road Interchange which are an important economic driver and vital in supporting jobs during these challenging times.

"We have a $23 billion roads and transport program in Queensland, and I want every Queenslander to know that we're powering ahead with these projects to help support 21,500 jobs, including 13,500 in our regions," the Premier said.

"These infrastructure projects are not only playing an essential role in leading our economic recovery by creating local jobs but they're critical to cater for our growing communities."

The Premier said her government was committed to supporting a pipeline of upgrades to improve travel times on the Centenary Motorway.

"More than 35,000 vehicles use this stretch of road daily and I want people to be able to get home sooner and safer so they can spend more time with their families," Ms Palaszczuk said.

Member for Mount Ommaney Jess Pugh is thrilled to see this major milestone achieved. 

"The new bridge will be a welcome sight for many local families and commuters are heading back to work for the first time in weeks," Ms Pugh said.

"This milestone is concrete evidence of the Palaszczuk government's action on traffic congestion and I am really pleased to deliver this project in my first term.

"Our community has waited so long for this project, and I am really pleased that we have been able to continue working though the Health Emergency. It is so exciting to see the first bridge finished, and I can't wait to see the second bridge underway soon.

"In total, the Sumners Road project would need 17,000 tonnes of asphalt, 6,000 tonnes of concrete and 36 girders – and it's local businesses and 105 workers who will build it." 

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the major milestone would pave the way for the next stage of the project to begin: the demolition of the old bridge, and the construction of a new eastbound-four lane overpass.

"The LNP cut this project, and if they had their way that would mean 105 less jobs, and no business for many Queensland companies," Mr Bailey said.

"Thanks to the advocacy of local MP Jess Pugh, this government restored funding and right from the get go, we've seen Queensland businesses get involved in this project from the Brisbane-based major contractor right down to the bridge girders being produced at Seventeen Mile Rocks."

The Sumners Road overpass project is on-track for completion next year, and once complete will include:

new signalised intersections that will replace the 2 existing roundabouts
a new 2-lane eastbound bridge
a new 4-lane bridge with provisions for pedestrians and active transport users (replacing the existing westbound bridge)
a cycle track will be built as an underpass below the western intersection and will link up with the Centenary Motorway Bikeway.
For more information visit www.tmr.qld.gov.au/sumnersroad

ENDS

[ozbob]

http://statements.qld.gov.au/Statement/2020/5/15/21-billion-plan-to-bust-north-brisbane-congestion

Media Statements

Minister for Transport and Main Roads
The Honourable Mark Bailey

Friday, May 15, 2020

$2.1 billion plan to bust North Brisbane congestion

The Palaszczuk Government has unveiled a $2.1 billion congestion-busting road plan for Moreton Bay and North Brisbane commuters.

The job boosting plan backs a new arterial road, informally dubbed the 'Moreton Connector', to be built between Dohles Rocks Road at Murrumba Downs and Anzac Avenue at Mango Hill.

It would also deliver upgrades to the Gateway Motorway, Gympie Road and the Bruce Highway, including new north facing ramps at Dohles Rocks Road.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the multi-billion dollar transformation of Brisbane's northern road network would build on Queensland's record $23 billion roads and transport investment over the next four years.

"The Federal Government is eager to look at what jobs we can create and what projects we have across Queensland," the Premier said.

"This proposal is exactly the kind of key congestion busting road infrastructure they are looking for and is ready to go to the Federal Government.

"If we can work with the Federal Government to get this approved, this of course means hundreds of jobs and better commuting for people travelling on the northside of Brisbane."

Deputy Premier and Member for Murrumba Steven Miles said the Moreton Connector will mean more Queenslanders can spend less time in traffic and more time with their family and loved ones.

"The Moreton Connector will reduce travel time for Queenslanders living on the northside of Brisbane," the Deputy Premier said.

"It will also allow Griffin residents easy access to North Lakes and bring a number of jobs to the local economy, which we know is very important at this time.

"We are keen to work with the Federal Government for the people of Queensland."

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said both levels of government had locked funding into future budgets for the northside upgrades.

"The Gateway Motorway, Bruce Highway and Gympie Road in this part of Brisbane's outer northern suburbs collectively carry about 310,000 vehicles a day," Mr Bailey said.

"That's 100,000 more vehicles a day than on the busiest section of the M1, so it's clear a plan is needed for new roads and major upgrades there.

"This is the plan that will deliver those upgrades.

"It will transform Brisbane's northern gateway by re-designing the Gateway Motorway, Bruce Highway and Gympie Road interchange and build a new arterial road to take traffic off the Bruce Highway between Murrumba Downs and Mango Hill."

Mr Bailey said both levels of government were committed to major road upgrades north of Brisbane and would work with Moreton Bay Regional Council to deliver the proposed new road.

"Funding that could deliver this plan is locked in future state and federal budgets," Mr Bailey said.

"There is also a further $150 million in joint funding already committed to upgrade the Linkfield Road overpass and the Strathpine Road interchange, with works there due to start in coming months.

"We have the blueprint to deliver significant improvements to major roads right across the northern reaches of Brisbane.

"The next step is for us to get all three levels of government together so we can get work started as soon as possible."

ENDS

====

" BUST CONGESTION "   DRINK!!

[red dragin]

As I've said elsewhere, the Moreton Connector is a long term planned road, that they've just announced  slow political news day hey.

[Golliwog]

The two Gympie Rd interchanges were also already in planning (think there had already been some consultation?) - interested to see what their proposed redesign of the Gympie Rd - Bruce Hwy - Gateway interchange looks like.

[ozbob]

http://statements.qld.gov.au/Statement/2020/5/19/400m-road-stimulus-package-to-supercharge-jobs-qld-economy

Media Statements
JOINT STATEMENT

Premier and Minister for Trade
The Honourable Annastacia Palaszczuk

Minister for Transport and Main Roads
The Honourable Mark Bailey

Tuesday, May 19, 2020

$400m road stimulus package to supercharge jobs, Qld economy

The Palaszczuk Government has announced more than $400 million in new, accelerated funding for Queensland roads to supercharge the state's economy through the COVID-19 recovery.

The funding boost was announced as part of The Queensland Economic Recovery Strategy: Unite and recover for Queensland Jobs, to help the State recover from COVID-19 with a focus on backing Queensland jobs.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the boost would see new projects added to the state's $23 billion, 21,500-job pipeline of transport and road upgrades.

"This is about investing in Queensland infrastructure to create Queensland jobs as we unite and recover from COVID-19," Ms Palaszczuk said.

"Nothing has been off the table in our response to this crisis. We've spoken to businesses to create a package that will see more than 430 jobs enter the fold at a time when it's never been more important.

"Our laser focus is on managing the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, and it's investing in infrastructure and jobs that is crucial to tackling those economic impacts head-on."

The stimulus package includes $200 million in funding to increase resilience, widen and seal key freight routes across the state as well as upgrade older bridges and culverts, which is a direct injection for regional jobs and will help support council crews.

There's also new funding for:

$37.5 million for the jointly-funded Mount Lindesay Highway upgrade from Stoney Camp Road to Chambers Flat Road – 80 jobs
$35 million Lawrie Street upgrade at Gracemere – 56 jobs
$30 million Beaudesert Road and Illaweena Street intersection upgrade – 32 jobs
$18 million Six Mile Creek Bridge upgrade along Pomona-Kin Kin Road – 28 jobs
$15 million Centenary Motorway and Logan Motorway interchange upgrade – 15 jobs
$15 million in additional funding for the Cleveland-Redland Bay Road duplication – 23 jobs
$13 million Proserpine-Shute Harbour Road duplication and intersection upgrade between Valley Drive and Tropic Road – 20 jobs
$10 million Brisbane, Chermside and Glebe roads intersection upgrade – 15 jobs
$10 million Beaudesert-Beenleigh Road upgrade – 15 jobs
$9.5 million for the Beckmans Road and Cooroy-Noosa Road intersection upgrade – 18 jobs
$8.9 million to widen Herveys Range Developmental Road near Townsville – 14 jobs
$3.75 million Caloundra Road and Ridgewood Road intersection upgrade – 12 jobs
$3.5 million Mulgrave Road and Brown Street upgrade in Cairns – 10 jobs
$1.5 million Gold Coast Highway and Toolona Street pedestrian upgrade, Tugun – 4 jobs
Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the construction industry plays an essential role in keeping the state's economy moving and it was vital that Queensland doesn't lose momentum on its record roads and transport investment.

"Today's announcement of accelerated funding adds to more than $23 billion rolling out across Queensland roads and transport, and I want every Queenslander to know that we continue to deliver those projects because it means support for 21,500 jobs, including 13,500 in our regions," Mr Bailey said.

"The vast majority of this $400 million will go directly to our regions, supporting 360 jobs and helping us pave the way to recovery.

"We've already got hundreds of millions of dollars in projects underway right now, including millions for projects being built with councils through our TIDS program, and they'll all be joined by much bigger ones to hit the ground running in coming months."

Mr Bailey said projects already underway included:

$1 billion M1 Varsity Lakes to Tugun – 850 jobs (for the entire project)
$812 million Bruce Highway upgrade from Caloundra Road to the Sunshine Motorway – 680 jobs
$662 million Bruce Highway Caboolture to Steve Irwin Way early works – 664 jobs (for the entire project)
$514 million Haughton River Floodplain project at Giru, 40km south of Townsville – 544 jobs
$497 million Mackay Ring Road – 534 jobs
$400 million Ipswich Motorway upgrade from Rocklea to Darra – 471 jobs
$121 million Rockhampton Northern Access Upgrade – 260 jobs
$164 million Smithfield Bypass start of new intersection - 115 jobs
$150 million Bruce Highway interchange upgrade at Deception Bay – 270 jobs
$104 million Cairns Southern Access Kate to Aumuller streets bridge decks – 113 jobs
$75 million Capricorn Highway duplication, Gracemere – 187 jobs
$197.5 million M1 upgrade from Mudgeeraba to Varsity Lakes – 257 jobs
$80 million Sumners Road interchange – 105 jobs
$50 million Bruce Highway safety upgrades between Mackay and Proserpine – 95 jobs
$42 million Peninsula Developmental Road sealing (part of $237.5 million Cape York Regional Package Stage Two) – 115 jobs (for the entire project)
$18 million Three Moon Creek bridge upgrade, Burnett Highway – 60 jobs
$20 million Philip Street duplication, Gladstone – 60 jobs
$19 million Capricorn Highway overtaking lanes, Rockhampton to Emerald – 60 jobs
$14.5 million Bajool-Port Alma Road upgrade, south of Rockhampton – close to 60 jobs
$7.5 million King Street upgrade, Caboolture final stage – 17 jobs
$4.9 million Beaudesert-Nerang Road safety works – 32 jobs
$4.3 million Eumundi-Noosa Road upgrade – 21 jobs
$4.2 million Ormeau Park 'n' Ride upgrade
And adds to major projects starting later this year such as:

$1 billion Bruce Highway upgrade Cooroy to Curra Section D– 576 jobs
$481 million Bruce Highway upgrade from Edmonton to Gordonvale in Cairns – 466 jobs
$709 million Gold Coast Light Rail 3A early works – 760 jobs (for the entire project)
$749 million M1 and busway upgrade at Logan – 721 jobs
$550 million Sunshine Coast rail upgrade – 333 jobs
$301 million Bruce Highway upgrade at Maroochydore Road and Mons Road interchanges – 382 jobs
$110 million Mackay Northern Access upgrade - 154 jobs
$44.5 million Springfield Central park 'n' ride upgrade – 44 jobs
ENDS