Warrego Hwy $635m upgrade starts today

THE first stage of the $635 million Warrego Hwy upgrade package is underway, with works starting today on the first stage.

At the sod turning for works on the Warrego Highway are (from left) Federal Member for Groom Ian Macfarlane, Seymour Whyte managing director David McAdam, Member for Condamine Pat Weir and Kym Murphy from Transport and Main Roads. . Picture: Contributed

THE first stage of the $635 million Warrego Hwy upgrade package is underway, with works starting today on the first stage.

Deputy Prime Minister Warren Truss said the project would duplicate the highway between Toowoomba and Oakey, stretching from Nugents Pinch Rd to Leeson Rd.

"This $110 million package of works will create two lanes in each direction for 5.7km," Mr Truss said.

"This section of the highway carries more than 15,000 vehicles each day, which is set to increase to 30,000 over the next 20 years.

"These upgrades will improve safety on this section of the highway by providing separation between opposing traffic streams, intersection upgrades and new turning lanes to provide safe turning opportunities."

Federal Member for Groom Ian Macfarlane said the works would also include the construction of a grade-separated intersection at Troys Rd, installation of traffic signals and the realignment of the Charlton Pinch Rd and Gowrie Junction Rd intersections.

"The Warrego Highway is a vital connection between southern Queensland's agricultural and resource regions and the Port of Brisbane, and every dollar spent on this project will return to the economy more than five times the cost of our investment," Mr Macfarlane said.

"This upgrade will ease congestion for commuters and freight operators alike, making the journey in and out of Toowoomba much easier and safer.

"During the works there will be minimal impact on traffic flow, with construction of the new traffic lanes mainly occurring alongside the existing highway.

"The upgrade is being undertaken by Seymour Whyte Constructions Pty Ltd and is due to be completed in mid to late2016."

The Australian Government has committed $508 million towards the Warrego Highway upgrade package of works. Stage One funding comprises up to  $88 million from the Australian Government and $22 million from the Queensland Government.

Originally published as Warrego Hwy $635m upgrade starts today