Safer, less frustrating driving conditions along the Warrego Highway east of Oakey can soon be expected, with construction of a new westbound overtaking lane between Brimblecombe and Henningsen roads to begin this week.

Federal Infrastructure and Transport Minister Anthony Albanese said once completed by the middle of the year, the new $2 million overtaking lane will give the 10,000 motorists and 2,000 truck drivers that use this stretch of highway everyday an additional opportunity to safely pass slower moving vehicles.

“Recommended by an independent panel of road safety experts, this Federally-funded project is one of a number upgrades currently being delivered up and down the Warrego Highway,” said Mr Albanese

“All up, the Gillard Labor Government has committed more than $85 million to maintaining and improving this vital part of the national road network connecting the communities of western Queensland to the south east corner.”

“Nonetheless we appreciate that the region’s rapidly expanding mining industry is placing increased pressure on this road. That’s why it will remain a priority for future funding and a possible beneficiary of the additional infrastructure dollars which will be raised by our Mineral Resources Rent Tax.”

Queensland Main Roads Minister Craig Wallace said work will start next week along a 1.4 kilometre section of highway.

“The project will widening the road to accommodate a new 3.5 metre-wide eastbound lane as well as two new 3.5 metre-wide westbound lanes and a two-metre sealed shoulder,” said Mr Wallace.

“While this project is underway and work teams are onsite, it is a vital safe requirement that all drivers slow down, obey the signs and follow the instructions of traffic controllers.”

The upgrade is being delivered by the Main Roads Department’s construction arm, RoadTek, with work expected to be completed by 30 June, weather permitting.