Work on Townsville’s $230 million Ring Road Stage 5 (TRR5) got underway today, with the first sod being turned on the project.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development, Barnaby Joyce said the project demonstrated the Federal Government’s ongoing commitment to regional Queensland.
“The TRR5 project will duplicate the remaining six-kilometre, two-lane section of the Townsville Ring Road and deliver significant improvements in safety and freight efficiency through the city,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.
“We are pleased to be working in partnership with the Queensland Government to deliver the long-term infrastructure needed to ensure continued economic growth in the Townsville and surrounding region.”
Queensland Transport and Main Roads Minister, Mark Bailey said the upgrade would ensure the Bruce Highway has the capacity to accommodate the growing Townsville region for many years to come.
“The TRR5 project is part of the Palaszczuk Government’s plan for economic recovery and jobs in North Queensland,” Mr Bailey said.
“TRR5 will provide a huge boost to the Townsville region’s economy over the next few years.
“This investment is estimated to support nearly 400 direct jobs at a time when North Queensland needs them most.”
State Member for Thuringowa Aaron Harper said the entire Townsville Ring Road would be a dual-lane carriageway by 2023, improving efficiency, travel time and safety while creating vital jobs and opportunities for contractors and suppliers across Townsville.
“While a range of specialised goods and services will be required to deliver the TRR5 project, TMR and principal contractor Georgiou are committed to using the people, goods and services available in the region,” Mr Harper said.
“More than 17,000 vehicles use this section of the Townsville Ring Road each day, 12% of which are freight vehicles.”
The upgrade will also reduce peak-hour congestion on the surrounding network and improve connectivity to important employment nodes such as Lavarack Barracks, James Cook University and Townsville University Hospital.
The TRR5 is being designed by AECOM and built by Georgiou Group, with completion expected in 2023, weather permitting.
The Australian Government has committed $184 million towards the TRR5 project which is jointly funded by the Queensland Government, contributing $46 million.