The first stage of the tender process for the $30 million Riverway Drive duplication in Kelso, Townsville have called for expressions of interest.
According to Main Roads and Road Safety Minister Mark Bailey, the duplication of the three-kilometre section between Gollogly Lane and Allambie Lane will benefit the Upper Ross’ growing community.
“I’m pleased to announce today the first stage of tenders have been called for the construction of Riverway Drive – an important milestone for this project.
“Traffic counts have indicated this section of Riverway Drive is reaching capacity, with an average of 20,400 vehicles each day,” Mr Bailey said.
Aaron Harper, Member for Thuringowa, said that traffic numbers on Riverway Drive are expected to reach up to 37,000 in the next two decades. Mr Harper also said that the road duplication will help improve travel times and road safety with the installation of central medians as well as signalised intersections and pedestrian crossings.
Befitting the local economy, up to 82 jobs on average will be supported for the entire duration of the project.
“I encourage local suppliers, who are pre-qualified with QTenders, to consider the tender information online.
“This first stage of the tender process gives companies the opportunity to show their previous experience in areas such as maximising local procurement and delivering similar projects,” Mr Harper said.
Mr Harper said that once the detailed design for the Riverway Drive duplication is completed, the EOI applicants will be invited to tender and those applications will be assessed in the coming New Year. He also said that the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) is working closely with council, developers and the community in order to ensure that the needs of motorists, cyclists and pedestrians are also considered.
“As construction approaches, the project team will doorknock local residents between Allambie and Gollogly Lane to discuss the project, distribute flyers, provide website updates and put up VMS signs,” Mr Harper said.
Construction is expected to begin in 2017.
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Source: Queensland Government
