The Queensland government is working towards ‘future-proofing’ the Cunningham Highway, with the announcement of $20 million being committed to one of the state’s major freight routes.
Long-term improvements will be carried out in two priority areas, on Ipswich-Rosewood Road (Amberley) intersection and Ripley Road and Swanbank Road interchanges.
The Ipswich-Rosewood Road (Amberley) intersection planning will explore options for a long-term solution at the intersection, including grade separation, a bypass or duplication of the highway.
It will also take community feedback into consideration during the consultation process and focus on improving safety for all users of this important transport connection.
Queensland transport minister Bart Mellish says the Cunningham Highway and Ipswich Rosewood Road (Amberley) is their highest priority.
“Following community feedback, we recognise the need to focus on the long-term solution given growing demands in the area,” he says.
“The Ipswich-Rosewood Road (Amberley) intersection is a key connection for freight and the local community as well as servicing the main access point to Australia’s largest operational military air base—the Royal Australian Air Force Base Amberley.
“Additionally, we know the Ripley Road and Swanbank Road exits are important interchanges for the community and an upgrade of these is a priority for the state and federal governments.”
Federal member for Blair Shayne Neumann says the governments will continue working together to achieve the quality infrastructure the highway deserves.
“This commitment is the first step in fixing the Amberley intersection and addressing growing traffic congestion challenges at the Ripley and Swanbank interchanges,” he says.
“A long-term solution to the Cunningham Highway would improve safety at the Amberley intersection, boost freight connectivity through the region, and reduce congestion for residents in Ipswich’s growth corridor and defence personnel at RAAF Base Amberley.”
This project is part of the federal government’s broader $170 million investment in the Cunningham Highway.
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