Regional freight routes set for $185m works boost

Work on key inland freight corridors is being brought forward in a move to boost Queensland road construction jobs. The early works projects, worth $185 million over four years, would be delivered on corridors identified under the Roads of Strategic Importance (ROSI) initiative, Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Minister Michael McCormack said. Works to seal roads, build overtaking lanes, upgrade intersections and improve safety are among the 22 projects jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments. “As the effects of COVID-19 ripple through our economy, it is vital all levels of Government work together to support jobs, drive economic growth and build stronger and safer regional communities,” Mr McCormack said. “Delivering early works through the ROSI initiative will give regional Queensland communities access to new projects and jobs." Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said an agreement reached in November last year meant this infrastructure could be brought forward. Key regional routes targeted for works include the Flinders Highway, Kennedy Developmental Road (Hann Highway), Carnarvon Highway, Dawson Highway and Dawson Developmental Road (Springsure – Tambo), Gulf Developmental Road, Gregory Highway and Gregory Developmental Road, Balonne Highway, Gore Highway, Proserpine - Shute Harbour Road and the local government-controlled Floraville Road in Burke Shire. Queensland Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the State Government had identified projects which could start in the coming 12 months, while further consultation continued to develop 10-year ROSI corridor investment strategies. “In the meantime, my department has identified a range of critical projects on each of those corridors including bridge replacements, road sealing and widening and intersection upgrades that can get started earlier while we’re consulting on the longer-term priorities,” he said. “Council workforces and local contractors will benefit from these contracts too. “It’s also good news for the freight industry which relies heavily on key inland corridors because it means earlier investment will make these roads safer and more flood resilient – sooner.” The Australian Logistics Council (ALC) said the agreement to bring forward the Roads of Strategic Importance (ROSI) works would help to enhance the resilience of vital supply chains.“Completing these upgrades will help freight and logistics operators move essential goods more efficiently, protect the safety off all road users and help Australian exporters in their continued efforts to take high-quality products to world markets,” he said.“ALC hopes this collaborative approach can be replicated across other jurisdictions, to support Australia’s post-COVID economic recovery.” https://www.i-q.net.au/civil-contractors/new-specifications-released-for-crack-sealing https://www.i-q.net.au/main/resilience-funding-made-available

Regional freight routes set for $185m works boost

Industry Queensland

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