The Queensland road freight network is about to explode as works on the Second Bruce get underway.
After a lengthy planning and preparation process, the Queensland government has commenced work on the Inland Freight Route, also known as the Second Bruce.
The Second Bruce will establish a north-south alternative to the current Bruce Highway, which connects much of coastal Queensland.
Set to be an 1185km corridor, it will be crucial to the movement of freight between Mungindi and Charters Towers.
The federal and state governments are operating on an 80:20 funding model, with a total of $200 million allocated towards the project.
Queensland state premier Annastacia Palaszczuk says it will be a crucial addition to the road network as the state continues to grow.
“Building the Second Bruce is essential as Queensland population continues to boom,” she says.
“It will provide an alternative route for truckies and keep communities connected during major flood events.
“Our government wants to see this critical freight corridor built, so we’re honoring our commitment to this project and getting works started now.
“We are calling on the federal government to keep their commitment to the Inland Freight Route and honour the 80:20 agreed funding arrangement.”
The first works are taking place on the Dawson River bridge upgrades north of Injune. Part of the $107 million early works package, this also includes:
- Two bridge upgrades between Injune and Rolleston on the Carnarvon Highway
- Major culvert upgrades between Roma and Injune on the Carnarvon Highway
- Two road strengthening and widening projects (in sections) between Clermont and Charters Towers on the Gregory Developmental Road in the vicinity of Belyando
State roads minister Mark Bailey says that supply chains will benefit massively from the new freight route.
“Bringing forward the Queensland portion of funding for the Inland Freight Route between Mundgindi and Charters Towers is vital,” he says.
“The Bruce Highway is the single most important highway in the country.
“By building a better Inland Freight Route targeted at taking trucks off the Bruce, we are ensuring strong supply chains and driving economic growth for regional industries and communities.
“Not only that, upgrades will improve connectivity and safety to help keep our state moving with a viable alternative to the Bruce Highway.”