Riverway Drive Stage 2: Tenders open to reduce traffic congestion

Tenders are now open for an almost $100 million upgrade of a major Townsville road that is expected to relieve congestion for 17,000 motorists each day.

Thuringowa MP Aaron Harper and the Department of Transport and Main Roads said that in addition to helping reduce traffic pressure, the $95 million Riverway Drive Stage 2 upgrade project would also enhance safety. Picture: Supplied

Tenders are now open for an almost $100 million upgrade of a major Townsville road that is expected to relieve congestion for 17,000 motorists each day.

Thuringowa MP Aaron Harper and the Department of Transport and Main Roads said that in addition to helping reduce traffic pressure, the $95 million Riverway Drive Stage 2 upgrade project would also enhance safety.

The project will deliver upgrades to 3.1km of Riverway Drive, which includes widening a 1.6km section between Allambie Lane and Hammond Way to four lanes.

“The Upper Ross is one of the fastest growing parts of Townsville so these upgrades are vitally important for the community,” Mr Harper said.

“I’ve advocated for this project since I was elected and fought hard to ensure the Federal Government kept its commitment to fund it, so I’m delighted to see early works have started and tenders are open.”

Thuringowa MP Aaron Harper and the Department of Transport and Main Roads said that in addition to helping reduce traffic pressure, the $95 million Riverway Drive Stage 2 upgrade project would also enhance safety. Picture: Supplied

Mr Harper said he delivered Riverway Drive stage one for the community and knew the importance of stage two.

“Infrastructure like this along with the water pipeline between the Ross River Dam and the Douglas Water Treatment Plant are so important to the area and ensure there is top-class facilities for the city and its residents.”

Numerous improvements will also be made to pedestrian and bicycle connectivity along Riverway Drive, increasing protection for vulnerable road users.

Riverway Drive stage 2 (Allambie Lane to Dunlop Street) location map. Source: TMR

The project is funded by the Australian and Queensland governments, with the Australian Government contributing $76 million and the Queensland Government contributing $19 million.

TMR Minister Bart Mellish said increasing the 1.6km section between Allambie Lane and Hammond Way would “significantly ease congestion, increase travel reliability and improve safety.

“This is another example of the Queensland Government keeping Queenslanders safe on our roads,” he said.

“These upgrades, which include improved on-road and off-road bicycle facilities and dedicated crossing points for pedestrians, will address the increased demand for a safe and connected active and passenger transport network in the Upper Ross, both now and into the future.”

The construction tender is expected to be awarded in July, with construction expected to commence in mid-late 2024.

Originally published as Riverway Drive Stage 2: Tenders open to reduce traffic congestion