Dec 10, 2009

Economic Stimulus: more boom gates for Queensland

The Hon Anthony Albanese MP

The Minister for Infrastructure, Transport,

Regional Development and Local Government

Leader of the House

Member for Grayndler

December 10 2009

Work is now complete on the installation of boom gates and other safety measures at two high risk level rail crossings in Queensland, with funding from the Rudd Labor Government’s Economic Stimulus Plan.

Boom gates have been installed at the following locations:

Warner Road, WRIGHTS CREEK (between Edmonton and Gordonvale);
Hesp-Bennett Road, ALOOMBA.

Under the boom gates program, Queensland has been allocated $42.7 million to upgrade 66 high risk level crossings by June 2010.

Within this program eight level crossings have already been upgraded on time and within budget, with QR Network Pty Ltd having managed their delivery.

Tragically, about 100 accidents occur at rail crossings every year.

Never before has the Federal Government had a program dedicated to improving safety and preventing accidents at level crossings. This investment will not only improve road safety but also support local jobs and local businesses during the current global recession.

Nationally, our $150 million Boom Gates for Rail Crossings Program will fund the installation of boom gates and other safety measures at 292 level crossings.