Improved road train access a key priority of the project
Funding for the inaugural project under the $100 million Beef Roads Program has been approved by the federal government.
A 16.9km section of the Clermont – Alpha Road in Queensland will be upgraded to support the beef industry by improving safety, travel reliability, road train access and better link agricultural industries to markets.
Federal infrastructure and transport minister Darren Chester says the $8 million project will ensure a modern and reliable road network.
“We’re investing in an eight-metre seal on the upgraded sections through the Beef Roads Program because we understand that to make the most of our opportunities, we need a modern and reliable road network,” Chester says.
“This investment will ensure this key freight route will stand up to Queensland’s weather and reduce road closures, and eliminate vehicle weight restrictions.”
The works include an eight-metre seal on the upgraded section.
Federal member for Capricornia Michelle Landry says the improvement works will help support the agricultural and resource industries across the entire central-western Queensland region.
“Our investment in these upgrades are an investment in the reliability, productivity and resilience of all our industry supply chains and local jobs,” Landry says.
Federal member for Maranoa David Littleproud says work on the first package of the upgrades are due to start in early 2018, with overall completion due in mid-2019.
“This vastly improved, sealed surface will provide increased protection and room to manoeuvre for cattle-loaded road trains travelling the route,” Littleproud says.
“These upgrades will also provide a great boost for local jobs, with the projects to be delivered by Barcaldine and Isaac Shire Councils.”
The project cost will be split on a 80:20 basis, with the federal government investing $6.414 million and the state government providing the remaining 20 per cent.