Funding approved for Haughton River Floodplain Upgrade

MARCH 8, 2018: THE upgrade of the Haughton River Bridge and flood immunity works is signed and sealed, and construction is set to start mid-year!Hundreds of millions of dollars will be invested in the Haughton River Floodplain upgrade with the Liberal National Government approving its $411.4 million share of funding today.I have pushed for a fix on the narrow and dangerous Haughton River Bridge since 2012, and the timeline was brought forward last year. Works will include the construction of an upgraded Haughton River Bridge, two overpasses and 13 other bridges, upgrading nine rural intersections, widening the road and installation of wide centre line treatment installed along the full length of the project.Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Michael McCormack said the scale of funding approved signalled the Government’s commitment to fixing troublesome sections of the Bruce Highway for the benefit of locals, visitors and freight operators."This upgrade project will revitalise north Queensland, and particularly Townsville, by supporting the long term growth and viability of local businesses and industries, and improving driver safety, connectivity and liveability," Mr McCormack said.In total it's a $514.3 million upgrade of key sections of the highway which will improve flood immunity and freight reliability for Queensland’s primary north-south corridor and boost accessibility for rural residents travelling to Townsville for essential services.This project will significantly reduce the frequency and duration of road closures along this section of the highway during the wet season and keep freight and people moving. The Bruce Highway is a vital artery for Queenslanders and upgrades which minimise closures due to flooding help keep this highway flowing.At least 12 kilometres of the 13.5 kilometre section of highway is often flood-affected during the wet season.Construction of the project will start mid-2018 and be completed around mid-2021, weather permitting. The Australian Government has committed up to $411.4 million to the project, with the Queensland Government contributing $102.9 million.