Driving towards better safety and access on the Richmond-Winton Road

October 23, 2020

The Australian and Queensland Governments have unlocked $13 million to seal 8.4 kilometres and widen 11.2 kilometres of the Richmond-Winton Road in Queensland’s north-west.

 

The works are part of a stimulus package to deliver shovel-ready infrastructure projects and urgent road safety upgrades in Queensland.

 

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the route was a crucial transport link for freight, tourism and agriculture in the region.

 

“This vital 145 kilometre-long transport corridor connects Richmond and Winton and by investing in these upgrades the road will become more reliable in all kinds of weather, making local communities safer and surrounding industries more productive,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

 

“The works will also provide targeted stimulus for local workforces and that’s exactly why we are continuing to sign off on projects like this across the state and the country.

 

“Our record $110 billion infrastructure pipeline is driving our economic recovery while improving our road networks to get Australians home sooner and safer.”

 

Federal Member for Maranoa David Littleproud said the Richmond-Winton Road was prone to closures after rain.

 

“Currently, about half the road is gravel, which presents unique challenges to safe driving,” Mr Littleproud said.

 

“The risk is even higher during weather events and is a problem for regional communities and industries.

 

“By continuing to invest in this vital road, we are supporting northern Queensland communities by improving the reliability, productivity and resilience of our supply chains and strengthening links to important markets.”

 

Works are expected to start in late October to avoid the wet season, with completion expected in March 2022.

 

The project is jointly funded with the Australian Government committing $10.4 million and the Queensland Government $2.6 million.