The Queensland government says the temporary single lane on the Palmerston Highway is expected to open by mid-February
The Queensland government has announced that construction of a temporary single-lane section to accommodate heavy vehicles has begun this week on the Palmerston Highway between Crawford’s Lookout and Junction Road.
“The Palmerston Highway suffered significant damage with major pavement slips occurring,” Queensland transport minister Bart Mellish says.
“This will unfortunately mean unavoidable long-term closures of this road to enable significant repairs.
“We understand the significant impact this is having on heavy vehicle operators and the agricultural industry, so in addition to providing temporary permits for an alternative route, we are fast-tracking work to restore access on Palmerston Highway.”
Mellish says the lane will be open to traffic by mid-February while Queensland’s transport and main roads department will continue to look at long-term solutions for the highway.
“Assistance will be provided through the jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA),” Mellish says.
The Queensland government says the Captain Cook Highway will reopen between Ellis Beach and Port Douglas on January 20.
“Approximately 30,000 tonnes of mud and debris have been removed from the road,” Mellish says.
“There are more than 15 trucks and heavy vehicles working on the site making about 100 trips each day to dispose of the debris.“
The Queensland government says motorists should expect delays and plan their journey ahead, with single lane closures expected for an initialtime period. Essential travel will also be undertaken along the route to assist crews working on the highway.