Traffic switches to new section of Bruce Highway – Cooroy to Curra

MOTORISTS using the Bruce Highway between the Mary River Road overpass and Cudgerie Drive at Black Mountain are now driving on a new two kilometre section of road.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Warren Truss said this week’s traffic switch at the northern end of the Cooroy to Curra Section A project represented a major milestone in the delivery of the $490 million upgrade project.

“The traffic switch links up to the recently completed section of highway between Cudgerie Drive and Black Mountain Range Road, meaning motorists can now travel on a five kilometre section of the new highway alignment,” Mr Truss said.

“Diverting traffic on to the new northbound carriageway, temporarily one lane in each direction, will allow construction of the new southbound lanes to progress.”

In its entirety, Section A will deliver approximately 13 kilometres, of new four-lane divided highway between the Cooroy Southern Interchange and Sankeys Road, as well as a new grade separated interchange north of Cooroy.

Queensland Minister for Main Roads, Road Safety and Ports Mark Bailey said the traffic change arrangements have focused on the safety of motorists and minimising disruptions to highway traffic.

“To ensure the safety of motorists and road workers, reduced speed limits, traffic controllers, police and signage will be in place while the work is undertaken,” Mr Bailey said.

“Lane closures will be required for the next week to allow for asphalting, line marking and barrier placement. However, closures will only take place at night to minimise disruption to road users.

“There are a number of major traffic changes being implemented on and around the Bruce Highway in the coming months as project works ramp up, and I urge motorists to be patient, drive safely and observe traffic controls.”

The project is being delivered under a 50/50 funding agreement between the Australian and Queensland Governments. The Cooroy to Curra Section A project is expected to be completed by late 2016, weather permitting.