Major construction has started on a new two-lane roundabout to deliver Stage 1 of the Tewantin Bypass.
Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the upgrade was part of the Palaszczuk Government’s ongoing commitment to improving road safety, as part of the record $27.5 billion road and transport plan.
“We have committed $9.81 million to design and build a roundabout at the intersection of Cooroy-Noosa Road and Beckmans Road – forming the first stage of the bypass,” Mr Bailey said.
“This project will deliver time-savings to locals and improve safety at what is currently a T-intersection.
“As an avid bike rider, I’m also thrilled to announce the project will include an off-road shared path on the western side of Beckmans Road, providing an active transport connection from Wentworth Street for people walking and riding bikes.”
Member for Noosa Sandy Bolton is thrilled to see work starting onsite after a long journey.
“Nearly $35 million in road and transport projects will be delivered in the Noosa region in the coming years,” Ms Bolton said.
“This investment and the benefits it will bring for locals, businesses and the future of the Noosa is very welcomed.
“Early works to relocate services have already been completed and today, we are kicking off main construction to create greater safety at this intersection which has been a priority for this community.”
Design and construction of the upgrade is being delivered by Noosa Council through a funding arrangement with the Queensland Government.
Mayor Clare Stewart said construction of a two-lane roundabout at this location would help ease long-term congestion and address safety concerns.
“The Tewantin Bypass is the final link in upgrading our arterial road network, with this intersection the first location to be improved,” Ms Stewart said.
“The new roundabout will facilitate free-flowing traffic, which is particularly important in peak periods, and accommodate pedestrians and bike riders, and tie into a future bypass road.”
Council’s Acting CEO, Larry Sengstock, said the successful construction contractor, Sunstate Group Queensland (SGQ), had been tasked with delivering the project safely and efficiently.
“Locals and motorists are going to notice increased activity as crews get to work and machinery is brought in as construction ramps up,” Mr Sengstock said.
“Works to get the project footprint ready have been underway for a number of months, including relocating the Unitywater watermain and Energex powerlines.
“Getting this done while design was being finalised has meant construction of the roundabout started as soon as possible.
“We look forward to being able to provide the local community and motorists with updates about the project as it progresses.”
Construction is expected to take seven months to complete, weather and construction conditions permitting.
