Works are set to start on the Cairns Western Arterial Road upgrade project, with an early works contractor now confirmed by the Queensland Government.
HEH Civil has been awarded the contract to deliver the early works, which include relocation of water and sewer infrastructure ahead of major construction.
The relocation works will be carried out within the road corridor between Kamerunga Bridge over the Barron River and the Captain Cook Highway.
Relocating these essential services ahead of major construction will help streamline project delivery, reduce future disruptions, shorten overall construction time, giving Cairns residents another piece of infrastructure to support the city’s growing population.
“Completing this work now will help pave the way for major construction, reducing disruption for the community and supporting more efficient delivery of the overall project,” said Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Brent Mickelberg.
Construction of the road duplication between Lake Placid Road and Captain Cook Highway will officially commence within weeks.
Project funding for construction has been allocated in State and Federal budgets, with the final cost to be released once the major construction contracts have been awarded.
The Lake Placid Road to Captain Cook Highway works are expected to be completed in late 2027, weather and construction conditions permitting.
Federal Assistant Minister for Regional Development, Senator Anthony Chisholm said the procurement milestone demonstrated a commitment to the project.
“With early works starting soon, this important milestone demonstrates the commitments made by the Albanese and Queensland governments to progress this important project and deliver better roads and infrastructure for Queenslanders,” Senator Chisholm said
“In addition to our government’s record investment on the Bruce, we’re also ensuring key local connections, like the Cairns Western Arterial, get the upgrades they need.
“Once complete, this project will increase capacity, reduce travel times and improve traffic flow for Far North Queenslanders.”
Assistant Minister for Tourism and Far North Queensland, Bree James said the announcement would be welcomed by her community.
“Far North Queensland has been waiting for work to start on the Cairns Western Arterial Road for a long time,” Assistant Minister James said.
“With the next round of early works set to start in weeks, we’re delivering this long-awaited project, helping locals get home safer and sooner.”
