REPAIRS to flood damage on a key transport route into the Southern Downs are now underway and should be completed by early 2014.
Drivers can expect delays and should plan accordingly.
Transport Minister Scott Emerson said a $30 million program of works had started on the Cunningham Highway between Warwick and Goondiwindi.
“We’ve already completed 342km of reconstruction work in the Darling Downs and our focus remains on efficiently delivering infrastructure to support our vital regional economies,” he said.
“These repairs will restore this key transport route, which was damaged in the floods of 2010, 2011 and 2012.”
Mr Emerson said four packages of works will be delivered on the Cunningham Highway by early 2014.
“Works underway by Goondiwindi Regional Council, just past Inglewood, will be finished by the end of September at a cost of $4 million,” he said.
“RoadTek is delivering a $7 million package of works, which started in August, just west of Warwick.
“These works will deliver almost 9km of repairs across four work sites up to the township of Gore.”
Mr Emerson said there will be multiple work sites opening between Inglewood and Goondiwindi as part of an $11 million package repairing damage caused by the 2012 event.
“Another project, costing $8 million, will start between Warwick and Inglewood in early October,” he said.
“We apologise in advance for any inconvenience to motorists on the Cunningham Highway.”
Works will take place on various sections at the same time to boost efficiences by sharing resources and equipment, reducing project costs.
Extensive changes to traffic conditions will be required and the highway will be reduced to one lane with stop/go conditions and reduced speed limits in place on several sections.
Mr Emerson said delays of up to 15 minutes are expected at various sites and motorists should allow extra time to complete their journey.
“This short inconvenience will allow these important repairs to be carried out with minimal overall disruption to this crucial interstate freight route, which supports the wider cotton, grain and livestock industries,” Mr Emerson said.
More information on flood recovery works in the Darling Downs region is available on 1800 063 397 during business hours. To receive email updates register at www.reconstruct_darlingdowns@tmr.qld.gov.au.
