KAP’s Nick Dametto addresses ‘urgent’ need for upgrades for Bruce Highway, Woolcock Street corridor

Highlighting “congestion and inadequate infrastructure” along the roads connecting Townsville’s Northern suburbs, the KAP says urgent action is needed as a petition was tabled by state parliament.

Nick Dametto at Shaw Road and North Shore Boulevard intersections.

More than 2500 Queenslander’s signatures have propelled an ‘urgent’ petition to parliament, calling for action on one of Townsville’s most controversial roads.

Highlighting “congestion and inadequate infrastructure” along the roads connecting Townsville’s Northern suburbs, KAP Deputy Leader Nick Dametto says current infrastructure ‘holding back growth” of the area.

The petition, now tabled in parliament, is urging the Crisafulli Government to fast-track the planning, design and construction for one of Townsville’s fastest-growing regions, which is often impacted by floods and clogged traffic flow.

“This petition sends a message to the Transport and Main Roads Minister that the people of the Northern Suburbs are fed up with daily congestion, inadequate infrastructure, and the ongoing vulnerability of the Lower Bohle River Bridge,” Mr Dametto said.

“Every time the Bohle River floods, the northbound bridge is shut down and traffic is forced to merge into one lane in each direction on the southbound bridge.

“Even in perfect weather, this section of road can’t handle the volume during peak times. It’s a choke point that’s holding growth in northern Townsville back.”

Mr Dametto said past the Bohle River, Woolcock Street leading to Veales Road is “already over capacity” and noted the “daily traffic chaos” at intersections including Shaw Road, North Shore Boulevard, Garland Road, Deeragun Road, Wagner Street and Mount Low Parkway.

“That’s why I’ve continued pushing for a full-scale redesign and upgrade of this vital stretch of highway. This must include additional lanes, flyovers, dedicated bike paths, a pedestrian bridge connecting Burdell and Deeragun, and crucially, the raising of the northbound Bohle River Bridge,” he said.

“An Options Analysis has already been completed on the proposed upgrade, although this is yet to be made public. What we do know is that $20 million for a business case is needed to continue progressing this project.”

Mr Dametto said he has written to Queensland’s Treasurer David Janetzki ahead of the upcoming State Budget, saying the project must be a priority for the future growth of the Northern suburbs.

Originally published as KAP’s Nick Dametto addresses ‘urgent’ need for upgrades for Bruce Highway, Woolcock Street corridor