Design starts for Saltwater Creek flood proofing works

Design work is underway to improve the Bruce Highway’s flood immunity as part of the $103 million Saltwater Creek Upgrade project, in Queensland.

Four bridges will be built on the highway at Saltwater Creek crossing and Deadman’s Gully, along with upgrading four floodways.

In 2013, the highway was closed for nearly 31 hours due to flooding at the Saltwater Creek.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the section between Maryborough and Torbanlea is known for poor flood immunity.

“After significant rain it experiences closures that affect passenger and freight movements in central and northern parts of the state,” Mr. McCormack said.

Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads Mark Bailey said there are regular flood closures on the stretch of highway often resulting in delays between 3.6 to 19.3 hours a year.

“We’re committed to delivering important projects like this to keep Queenslanders and our industries connected and minimise the impact of flooding,” he said.

The project is jointly funded by federal and state governments with the Federal Government funding $82.4 million and state funding the rest.

Design for the upgrades is expected to be completed by next year.