News
6 July, 2024
Projects aim to reduce road congestion
Two new transport infrastructure programs, announced as part of Budget 2024-25, will improve road productivity and reduce local congestion across Queensland.
Two new transport infrastructure programs, announced as part of Budget 2024-25, will improve road productivity and reduce local congestion across Queensland. These programs are part of the broader $37.4 billion Queensland Transport and Roads Investment Program, which aims to support economic growth and job creation in communities across the state.
The $100 million Productivity Enhancement Program will focus on improving the road network to support heavy vehicle movements, particularly those related to key energy industries. This initiative is aligned with the Miles Government’s $26 billion Energy and Jobs Plan, and aims to enhance regional economies by improving infrastructure for oversized and over-mass vehicles. It will also contribute to future job growth and regional prosperity.
The second program, the $100 million Local Congestion Busting Program, will address traffic congestion by targeting key "bottle necks" in the road network, particularly at intersections. The program will take a ‘One Network’ approach, working closely with local councils to identify and deliver lower-cost upgrades that will reduce delays, making travel more efficient and less costly, especially for freight. This initiative will benefit both commuters and industries by improving overall traffic flow.
Eligible projects under both programs could involve a mix of state and council-owned assets, with funding provided on a 50:50 matching basis or delivered directly by the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR). TMR will begin identifying specific projects for delivery over the coming months.
Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Bart Mellish, emphasized that the new funding aims to improve connectivity, reduce congestion, and boost productivity for both residents and industries across the state, aligning with the government’s broader goals of enhancing safety, resilience, and accessibility.
