$11.5 million Peak Downs Highway upgrade works under way

The suite of works will improve safety for all motorists in the highly trafficked area

Works have started on $11.5 million upgrading the Peak Downs Highway near Clermont. Picture: Tara Miko

Work is under way on $11.5 million worth of safety upgrades to the Peak Downs Highway, north of Clermont.

Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack said the Wolfang Road intersection would be upgraded, along with three sections of the highway, between Tea Tree Creek bridge and Myall Creek crossing.

“The highway is being strengthened and widened, making it safer for oversized and over-mass vehicles, as well as regular road users,” Mr McCormack said.

“Two heavy vehicle stopping bays will be upgraded, and a new, protected right turn at the Wolfang Road intersection will improve safety for road train drivers.

“The project is a partnership between the Australian and Queensland governments through the Australian Government’s Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program, which improves safety and productivity for heavy vehicle operators.”

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Queensland Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said traffic volumes were expected to increase on the Peak Downs Highway.

“Just over 3km of road will be widened to 9m, with one-metre shoulders, to increase separation between heavy vehicles, caravans and light vehicles,” Mr Bailey said.

“Widening three sections will enable safer overtaking opportunities, so drivers don’t take unnecessary risks.

“We’re also tackling fatigue for heavy vehicle drivers by upgrading two informal stopping bays.”

The Peak Downs Highway upgrades north of Clermont will improve safety for all motorists. Picture: Tara Miko

Assistant Minister for Northern Australia and Capricornia MP Michelle Landry said the wider road would also enable safer overtaking opportunities.

“Discouraging drivers from taking unnecessary risks by providing adequate overtaking facilities is a key part of saving lives on the Peak Downs Highway,” Mrs Landry said.

“This is another example of the Australian Government working toward Vision Zero on our roads by investing in safety improvements – zero deaths and zero serious injuries is our ultimate goal.”

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Queensland Assistant Minister for Regional Roads Bruce Saunders said upgrading Queensland’s regional roads and highways was critical to improving safety for communities and industries that drive them regularly.

“The areas serviced by the Peak Downs Highway are major contributors to our state’s economy,” Mr Saunders said.

“Work on a $35 million upgrade of a 14km section of the Peak Downs Highway between Wuthung Road and Caval Ridge is due to wrap up in a few months.

“The project has supported over 100 jobs over the past year, so it’s good to see more work getting started on other sections of the highway now and supporting even more jobs.”

The $6 million strengthening and widening project is funded through the Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program on a 50:50 split between the Australian and Queensland governments.

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The $5.5 million Wolfang Road intersection upgrade is being delivered through the Road Safety Program on an 80:20 split.

RoadTek is carrying out the work, which is expected to be completed later this year, weather permitting.

For up-to-date information on roadworks and other traffic information, phone 13 19 40, visit www.qldtraffic.qld.gov.au or download the app.