The Queensland Government, in a joint initiative with its federal counterpart, will install a number of electronic signs in an
The Queensland Government, in a joint initiative with its federal counterpart, will install a number of electronic signs in an effort to reduce road accidents and assist road freight movement.
Almost $2.8 million will be invested in intelligent transport technology between Cooroy and Gympie, Federal Transport Minister Anthony Albanese and Queensland Main Roads Minister Warren Pitt announced today.
The intelligent transport system innovations, or electronic variable signs, are seen as a modern and effective way of improving safety, and providing motorists with up-to-date information.
“Through utilising technology, the Main Roads Department is able to provide advance warning to motorists of wet road conditions, traffic congestion, crash sites and other potential hazards,” Pitt says.
Albanese says the signs and cameras will be installed along the highway and then connected via computer.
The State Government expects strong support for the initiative from road freight operators, with Pitt saying it will streamline their business activities.
“I’m sure the new technology will be particularly well received by the freight industry, as it will allow them to plan alternative routes and keep moving in periods of congestion,” he says.
The new electronic signs and cameras will be installed by Christmas, with the more advanced warning technology scheduled to come online in the following year.
The project will also include a research component, to monitor improvements in the safety performance of the Cooroy to Gympie section of the Bruce Highway associated with the safety initiative.
The Federal Government committed $1.5 million to the project with the Queensland Government investing $1.29 million.