TMR to review Bruce Highway and Mackay-Bucasia Rd traffic flows

After what seems like a permanent state of roadworks and changed conditions, motorists celebrated clear line markings and traffic lights, only to be hit with huge wait times for no reason. WATCH THE VIDEO

Commuters have faced frustrating delays at one of Mackay’s busiest intersections, but only if they plan to head in a certain direction.

After months of construction work and changed conditions, the lights at the Bruce Highway and Mackay-Bucasia Rd intersection were finally switched on and lanes clearly marked.

While Bruce Highway motorists heading north and south, and those turning right onto Mackay-Bucasia Rd, have minimal delays, others have faced long waits.

The Department of Transport and Main Road says it is reviewing the right-turn lane from Mackay-Bucasia Rd to the Bruce Highway after motorists experienced exceedingly long wait times to head north.

In one instance about 9.30pm Monday, vehicles were forced to wait for more than five minutes and through at least three cycles for the Bruce Highway traffic flows.

A TMR spokesman said officers regularly reviewed “signal coordination for optimal traffic flow”.

“The traffic lights at this intersection are currently in a temporary stage and will be switched to a permanent arrangement next month,” the spokesman said.

“As this intersection is under construction, traffic control is being managed by a contractor, which is why there is no obvious cycle time on these lights.

“We have been working closely with the contractor to ensure safety and efficiency of the network is maintained.”

The upgraded intersection is part of the wider $144.55m Mackay Northern Access Upgrade project being delivered under the Bruce Highway Upgrade Program.

Roadworks are expected to be completed later this year, marking the end of a long period of construction in the area.

The works are increasing the Bruce Highway from four to six lanes from Ron Camm Bridge to the Mackay-Bucasia Rd turn-off, then four lanes between there and the Davey Street overpass.

It is also widening the Goosepond Creek bridges and extending the existing left and right-turn lanes at the Sams Rd intersection.

Motorists are urged to report traffic issues and hazards on state-controlled roads to TMR’s Statewide Traffic Management Centre on 13 19 40, or the Mackay and Whitsunday office on 4951 8555 during business hours.