Synergy JV has been selected to undertake the third major construction associated with the upgrade of the Bruce Highway between Sankeys Road and Traveston Road.

Federal Infrastructure and Transport Minister Anthony Albanese said next month the joint venture will begin laying bitumen along the new nine kilometre corridor which has just been cleared of more than five million cubic metres of soil and rock.

“This multimillion dollar package of work also includes building a Coles Creek Road overpass and erecting bridges over Coles Creek,” said Mr Albanese.

“I am particularly pleased that despite the extraordinary amount of rain that has fallen across the region in the last couple of months, this major road construction project remains on track.

“Importantly, this is only one of many projects currently underway along the length of the Bruce Highway. Indeed this Labor Government has quadrupled Federal spending on this vital road.”

Synergy JV is a joint venture comprising Civil Mining Corporation, Downer EDI Works Pty and Probuild Civil (Queensland).

The realignment of the Bruce Highway between Sankeys and Traveston roads is a jointly funded project, with the Gillard Labor Government contributing $488 million and the Bligh Labor Government a further $125 million.

Queensland Main Roads Minister Craig Wallace said the project has been progressing at an impressive rate since it started in September 2009, with all the signs indicating that it will be completed on budget and on time in 2012.

“This stretch of highway has seen a poor crash record with over 50 fatalities since 2000,” said Mr Wallace.

“Once completed, the new 12 kilometre section of four-lane, divided highway will provide safer driving conditions, with wide shoulders, emergency stopping bays and Intelligent Transport Systems such as speed-activated Variable Message Signs.”

The fourth construction contract which includes the construction of an interchange near Traveston Road and bridges over Skyring Creek is expected to start later this year.