The busy intersection at Farm and Alexandra Streets in Parkhurst, Rockhampton, has reopened following major upgrades to improve safety and congestion.
Funded through Rockhampton Regional Council’s capital works program and the Queensland Government’s Transport Infrastructure Development Scheme (TIDS), the intersection has undergone significant enhancements which included strengthening the road for heavy vehicle use.
Member for Rockhampton, Barry O’Rourke welcomed the upgrade, delivered as part of the Palaszczuk Government’s Transport Infrastructure Development Scheme (TIDS).
“This is a busy intersection and these upgrades will go a long way to improving safety and moveability for all road users,” Mr O’Rourke said.
“I’d like to thank everyone for their patience during construction.
“It’s great to see important local projects like these coming to completion, creating jobs and improving services along the way.”
Infrastructure Councillor, Ellen Smith said it is fantastic to see this project come to fruition.
“There are only a few final touches left that will be completed over the coming weeks, but the intersection has now fully reopened for the public and businesses,” Cr Smith said.
“This was a very complex and large project, and we really want to thank the community and businesses for their patience during this time.
“Safety has been at the forefront of this project as this area sees high traffic usage and heavy vehicle use.
“Crews undertook a full reconstruction to future proof the intersection.
“Road works entailed increasing the existing pavement thickness to cater for heavy vehicles, widening corners to improve safety for turning vehicles, installing a left and right turning lanes on Farm Street for turning north into Alexandra Street, new kerb and channel, concrete footpaths, additional drainage, and new asphalt surfacing.
“We also added new indented concrete parking bays along Alexandra Street.
“The widening of the intersection also required the relocation of traffic signal post, existing power poles, gas lines and telecommunication infrastructure – which all involved quite a bit of work.”
Over the next few weeks, crews will work on the final touches including finalisation of footpaths, completing services relocation and cleaning up of the site.
“Asphalt repairs and overlay along Alexandra Street from Farm Street to Power Street was scheduled for the weekend, however due to development works in the area this was rescheduled,” said Cr Smith.
“Impacted residents in the area will receive additional notification of these works prior to commencement.
“I want to thank the community, Council and the State Government for making this project happen.”
Divisional Councillor, Donna Kirkland welcomed the completion of this project and is looking froward to seeing activity again in the area.
“I am so excited to see the delivery of this project which will mean a safer intersection for vehicles and pedestrians along with new drainage infrastructure for the vicinity,” Cr Kirkland said.
“I understand that there has been a large impact on those who use the area, the businesses and the wider community.
“Your patience and ability to work with council over the last nine months is truly appreciated.
“With more development in the area and more heavy vehicles, this intersection will only get busier which is why we needed to make sure it could handle the increase in traffic and population going forward.
“As final works are being completed over the next few weeks, I want to remind residents and road users to follow our road signs and be cautious of workers.
“I know that local users of this intersection will be very pleased to use this popular route again,” she said.
