The last remaining major element of Townsville’s Port Access Road is quickly taking shape with work now well advanced on installing the final span of the new bridge over the Ross River.
Federal Infrastructure and Transport Minister Anthony Albanese said the $190 million project was on track to be completed and open to traffic by Christmas, on time and on budget.
“Almost four years to the day since work started on this vital piece of new infrastructure, we are finally entering the home straight with the project team now hard at work erecting the bridge and completing its northern approach,” said Mr Albanese.
“Together with the project’s first stage—the Stuart Bypass which opened to traffic in early 2010—this final 7.5 kilometre section will provide the first ever direct link between the Flinders and Bruce Highways and the Port. It will take up to 500 trucks a day off local suburban streets.
“But importantly, the Port Access Road is just one part of the record $420 million investment Federal Labor is making in Townsville’s road network. Indeed, we’re also completing the City’s Ring Road and duplicating the Bruce Highway between Vantassel Street and the Flinders Highway.”
The Port Access Road is a joint project with the Federal and Queensland governments each contributing $95 million. Since the start of construction it has supported some 960 jobs both directly and indirectly.
Queensland Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson said once completed, the new Port Access Road will help support the City’s growing population and the region’s rapid economic development.
“By taking trucks off local suburban streets, this new direct link to the Port will go a long way to easing congestion and helping to make Townsville an even better place to live, work and raise a family,” said Mr Emerson.
“This new road is an investment in the City’s future.”
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