Overpass boosts safety

FEB 10, 2015:THE mammoth task of Fixing the Bruce has taken another leap forward with the opening of a $50 million overpass near Ayr.A new cane rail overpass south of Hoey Road near Brandon on the Bruce Highway, which is already boosting safety and travel times for motorists, is now open to traffic. The overpass has separated road and rail infrastructure, which is a good outcome for industry as well as motorists, who will no longer experience delays when stopping at the level crossing.The project has also significantly improved flood immunity on the highway, reducing social, economic, freight and tourism impacts. More than 7,000 vehicles travel this section of the Bruce Highway each day, and there have been 15 serious crashes including one fatality since 1999. Improving safety here was a priority.This is a key part of a $50 million upgrade and realignment of the highway between Sandy Corner and Collinson’s Lagoon, being undertaken in partnership with the Queensland Government.The entire Sandy Corner and Collinson’s Lagoon project includes realigning and raising the highway, upgrading road lighting, building a new southbound overtaking lane and improving intersections to provide long-term benefits for all motorists.Finishing touches to the overall project will include laying new asphalt along the entire five-kilometre project alignment.The Australian Government has committed $40 million to this project and the Queensland Government is providing $10 million.About 115 direct and indirect jobs are being supported by the project, which is expected to be completed in May.