David Littlerpoud MP David Littlerpoud

Funding flows for vital road safety upgrades to Western Queensland highways

October 30, 2020

The Australian and Queensland Governments have unlocked a total of $10.8 million in joint funding for upgrades to three major highways in western Queensland.

 

Federal Member for Maranoa David Littleproud said the timing could not be better to see funding flow to deliver vital road safety upgrades in Maranoa.

 

“Unlocking this funding means we can get these projects underway, providing a much-needed boost to local jobs and the economy at a time when it couldn’t be needed more,” Mr Littleproud said.

 

“I am pleased to see the Mitchell Highway, Balonne Highway and Bulloo Developmental Road will receive a total $10.8 million for major safety upgrades, making our roads smoother and safer for all drivers.

 

“The Mitchell Highway will receive $4.5 million in joint funding to seal and widen priority sections between Cunnamulla and Charleville, supporting 15 jobs in the region during construction.

 

“$1.8 million will go towards the Bollon West flood levy on the Balonne Highway between Bollon and Cunnamulla, which is scheduled for completion by August 2021, weather permitting.

 

“A further $4.5 million will go towards widening priority sections of the Bulloo Developmental Road between Cunnamulla and Thargomindah, supporting an additional 15 jobs in the region.

 

“Every single local job we support in Maranoa by investing in infrastructure projects means one less worry for another Australian and their family, reliable work on the books for local construction companies and more cash flowing through local businesses and communities doing it tough.”

 

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the Australian Government has unlocked more than $97 million in federal funding under the Regional Economic Enabling Fund to get 23 critical projects across the state underway as soon as possible.

 

“By investing in vital infrastructure upgrades that ensure our road networks are more reliable, we are making local communities safer and industries more productive,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

 

“These upgrades form part of our joint investment to deliver shovel-ready infrastructure projects and urgent road safety upgrades in Queensland which will create jobs and much-needed economic stimulus in response to COVID-19.

 

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