Procurement has begun for the major construction component of works for the Tiaro Bypass project as part of critical Bruce Highway Upgrades.
The highly anticipated project, which is jointly funded by the Federal and State Governments, will deliver an 8.5 kilometre four-lane highway east of the township of Tiaro.
The new bypass will help address gridlock through one of the most congested sections of the Bruce Highway, by separating local and through traffic, reducing the queuing that currently occurs through town.
The final design includes grade-separated interchanges north and south of Tiaro which will work to improve safety, traffic efficiency and flood immunity along this section of the Bruce Highway.
The Queensland Government has engaged with the market for the main construction work and will lead the procurement process, following a recent commitment from the Federal Government to provide additional funding for the project.
Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Brent Mickelberg said the start of procurement marked a major step forward for the project.
“The Crisafulli Government committed to delivering a safer, more resilient Bruce Highway for Queenslanders, and delivering the Tiaro Bypass is just another way we’re getting on with the job,” Minister Mickelberg said.
“The start of procurement for the Tiaro Bypass shows we are getting on with the job of improving safety and reliability along the entire Brice Highway.
“By investing in the Tiaro Bypass, we are building a Better Bruce Highway to support a growing population, improving safety for anyone who drives the Bruce and liveability for locals.”
Federal Assistant Minister for Regional Development and Senator for Queensland, Anthony Chisholm said delivering a better Bruce Highway was a top priority of the Government.
“Delivering a better Bruce Highway for Queenslanders is a top priority of our government,” the Assistant Minister said.
“The Bruce Highway isn’t just a major commuter and tourist route; it’s also a crucial freight link between Queensland’s regional areas and our economically critical ports.
“This investment will provide locals, visitors and freight operators with a safer and more reliable journey.”
Member for Maryborough John Barounis said locals had waited too long for this critical upgrade.
“Anyone who has drive through Tiaro over the school holidays, knows how long you can get stuck in traffic trying to get through town,” Mr Barounis said.
“It’s frustrating for people driving through town, and it’s dangerous for pedestrians in town.
“Now we have secured additional funding for this project from the Commonwealth, we are finally getting on with delivering the Tiaro Bypass, just like we said we would.”
Construction timeframes will be confirmed once a contractor has been appointed.
For more information, visit https://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/projects/bruce-highway-gympie-maryborough-tiaro-bypass-construct-four-lane-bypass.
