A massive $1.9 billion funding boost has been committed by the Federal Government to build safer and better road and rail infrastructure for Queensland.
This historic deal will help fast track the delivery of a number of road and rail projects across the State.
The Australian Government is bringing forward about $650 million in funding as well as over $680 million in new funding. In addition, the State Government is also committing $606 million.
“We want these road and rail projects delivered as quickly as possible so Queenslanders can benefit from better infrastructure, but importantly we want to boost the economy now.
“By bringing forward these important road projects we will drive jobs, boost the economy and make Queensland roads and highways safer, while reducing travel times so people can be with their families instead of being stuck in traffic,” Prime Minister Scott Morrison said.
This funding boost will fast track a total of 20 projects across Queensland, including vital upgrades to the M1, Bruce, Warrego and Cunningham Highways as well as the North Coast Rail Line.
Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said that this agreement will also mean jobs for the region.
“I have always said we work best when we work together.
“We’re getting projects off drawing boards to create more jobs in more industries and deliver the things that make people’s lives better,” the Premier said.
The Australian and Queensland Governments have both agreed on a $9.3 billion funding for the Inland Rail project, which will pave the way for works to get underway in Queensland.
According to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack, the Liberal and Nationals Government is focusing on strengthening the economy and jobs growth.
“The Inland Rail project is a critical investment for Queensland and is projected to create 7,200 construction jobs and a more than $7 billion boost to the state economy.
“We’re also bringing forward funding and delivery for key projects to benefit not only road freight but improve safety for locals and tourists such as the Rockhampton and Mackay ring roads,” Mr McCormack said.
Details for the projects covered by the massive funding will be released shortly.
Queensland Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said: “This is a massive win for Queensland.”
The new funding that has been invested towards road and rail projects will be added to the significant funding from the recent Budget for Queensland.
“These commitments build on an already strong track record of investment by the Morrison Government in Queensland through projects like the Gold Coast Light Rail which will contribute to our SEQ City Deal,” Minister for Population, Cities and Urban Infrastructure Alan Tudge said.
The Federal Government funding that has been brought forward will include:
- $225.6 million for Bruce Highway upgrades
- $118.5 million for Roads of Strategic Importance (ROSI) initiative upgrades
- $94.3 million for M1 Pacific Motorway upgrades
- $90 million for the North Coast Rail Line Upgrade between Beerburrum and Nambour
- $62 million for Stage 3A of the Gold Coast Light Rail project
- $22 million for new upgrades along Warrego Highway
- $27 million for new upgrades along the Cunningham Highway
- $9 million for road upgrades associated with the Hinkler Regional Deal
- $7 million for the North Brisbane Bruce Highway Western Alternatives
On the other hand, the additional funding for existing projects include $157 million for Stage 3A of the Gold Coast Light Rail project.
The new funding from the Federal Government will include:
- $400 million for future priorities on the National Network including M1 Interchange Upgrades Exists 41 and 49
- $50 million for the relocation of the Loganlea Station
- $20 million for planning for the Port of Brisbane connection
- $10 million for the development of a business case for the Salisbury to Beaudesert rail line
What do you think of the new massive funding boost for Queensland? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.
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Source: Queensland Government; Minister for Population, Cities and Urban Infrastructure; Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development; Inside Construction
