Shovels will hit the ground on the M1 Pacific Motorway Varsity Lakes to Tugun upgrade by mid-2020, following the release of crucial Federal and Queensland Government funding.
Urban Infrastructure Minister Alan Tudge said the $250 million in joint funding would pave the way for critical construction that will address congestion, improve road safety and reduce travel times.
“It will deliver improvements to the 10-kilometre stretch of the Pacific Motorway between Varsity Lakes and Tugun, including upgrading both the north and southbound lanes from four to six lanes,” Mr. Tudge said.
“This is critical infrastructure that locals need both for safety and for reliability.”
Queensland Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said as one of Australia’s busiest road networks, the M1 was crucial for the $350 billion Queensland economy and jobs.
“Our $2.3 billion program is about supporting the Gold Coast community and economy by delivering infrastructure that connects families with jobs and Queensland goods with major markets,” Mr. Bailey said.
“Building a better M1 will not only benefit communities and businesses that use it every day, it will also support our booming tourism industry and create more than 2000 jobs in road construction.”
Federal McPherson Member Karen Andrews said the upgrades would support 837 jobs over the life of the project, boosting the local economy and employment.
“We are investing to deliver a world-class M1 that will support our growing population and bolster the economy for years to come,” Ms. Andrews said.
“I’m committed to reducing commuter frustration for Gold Coasters, to get them home sooner and safer.”
The project will also deliver ramp upgrades, bridge improvements, pavement construction works and smart motorways technology.
Related stories:
- Contract awarded for $180M M1 Pacific Motorway widening between Mudgeeraba and Varsity Lakes, QLD
- Pacific Motorway Stapley Drive Bridge replacement underway
- Major upgrade works begin on M1 Pacific Motorway