New road safety upgrades and improvements will be rolled out across Toowoomba Region, thanks to a $3,300,000 funding boost from the Australian and Queensland governments.
The funding will support a significant road safety project and eight minor upgrades that will help get locals, visitors and freight to their destination sooner and safer.
- Drayton Connection Road -– installation of wide centre line marking and intersection improvements from Lucks to New England.
- Installation of turn arrows into the existing signals at eight intersections in Toowoomba
These projects will create jobs and new opportunities for businesses and suppliers, delivering an important economic boost and helping drive the region’s economic recovery.
Federal Member for Groom Garth Hamilton said the funding was a big win for locals.
“A total of $3.3 million will be shared across the Toowoomba Region to fund road new safety upgrades and improvements to help reduce the number of fatalities and serious injuries occurring on our roads,” Mr Hamilton said.
“Currently, around 1,200 people die, and 40,000 are seriously injured on our roads each year, which is why our Government is taking strong action by delivering record investment in road safety across the nation.
“These improvements will start rolling out in coming weeks and are expected to be completed by mid-2022, meaning the community will quickly start reaping the benefits.”
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Barnaby Joyce said the road upgrades would help keep motorists safe and the economy strong.
“One life lost on Australian roads is one too many, which is why we are delivering this funding to improve roads right across the nation,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.
“We are investing in shovel-ready projects that can get underway quickly, saving lives sooner while supporting local construction jobs, businesses and the economy.
“Better road infrastructure will keep motorists and freight moving safely and efficiently, reducing the number of tragedies on our roads and driving our nation’s productivity.”
Federal Assistant Minister for Road Safety and Freight Transport Scott Buchholz said the new projects are expected to be delivered later this year.
“Fast-tracking road safety upgrades means that commuters, truck drivers and freight operators will be enjoying smoother, safer more efficient journeys into the future,” Mr Buchholz said.
“Delivering these upgrades as soon as possible is crucial to protecting motorists while also boosting our economy on the other side of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“This is another example of the Australian Government working to reduce the number of Australians missing around the dinner table due to tragedies on our roads.”
The Government has already invested $1.5 billion under the Road Safety Program in more than 1,050 road safety projects across Australia, most of which are complete and benefiting communities.
For more information on the Australian Government’s $3 billion Road Safety Program and other road safety initiatives, visit officeofroadsafety.gov.au/programs/infrastructure-programs.
