Coomera Connector update: When motorists will be able to drive on first section
Motorists have been told just how soon they may be driving on the Coomera Connector as images reveal how close the earliest section is coming to completion.
Gold Coast
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Motorists will be able to drive on the first section of the Coomera Connector motorway by the end of next year.
Significant work has been completed on Stage One North of the mammoth $3 billion project – which will run from Shipper Dr in Coomera to Helensvale Rd in Helensvale – with a bridge spanning Hope Island Rd, the Coomera River and Saltwater Creek rapidly taking shape.
Transport and Main Roads said 350 bridge girders has been installed and 13 bridge deck concrete pours completed so far on the almost one kilometre long bridge.
Speaking at the bridge on Tuesday, Housing Minister and Gaven MP Meaghan Scanlon said it meant there was relief in sight for motorists struggling with M1 congestion.
“Anyone who travels on the M1 knows how frustrating congestion can be and that’s why we’re committed to building the second M1. Crews on the ground are working really hard to get this project up off the ground as quickly as possible,” Ms Scanlon said.
“This section will start to progressively open as early as the end of next year so Gold Coasters can see some relief in sight.
“ … This of course is a significant investment by both the Miles Labor government and Albanese government. We know how much the Gold Coast is growing and it’s really important that we invest in the infrastructure that a growing city needs, whether it’s the second M1, new train stations, the light rail, we are delivering to make sure that the Gold Coast keeps on moving.”
Work is expected to begin later this month on the installation of 50 girders required for the overpass and pedestrian bridges over Helensvale Rd.
TMR said crews have also been busy laying more than 1500 metres of asphalt, including the first section of the main motorway alignment near McPhail Road and in areas for future widening around the Helensvale Road interchange and Shipper Drive.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Catherine King said the project would not only make it easier for locals to get around, but “ensure the viability of the M1.”
“The Australian Government is committed to delivering infrastructure that builds Australia, and the Coomera Connector is just one example of how we are doing that for southeast Queensland,” Ms King said.
“As one of the biggest infrastructure investments for the region, the Coomera Connector will improve safety, travel times and transport capacity.
“It will also ensure the viability of the M1 not only from a national freight perspective but also as an intra-regional commuter route and an integral part of the region’s tourism system.”
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Originally published as Coomera Connector update: When motorists will be able to drive on first section
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