The Landsborough Highway in the state’s central west is undergoing improvements with two new projects designed to make travelling the
The Landsborough Highway in the state’s central west is undergoing improvements with two new projects designed to make travelling the road safer and more comfortable for motorists.
Main Roads Minister Warren Pitt says a $1.2 million contract had been awarded to RoadTek, Main Roads’ construction arm, to reseal 14.1-kilometres of road in different sections along the highway between Winton and Kynuna.
“Main Roads regularly resurfaces roads to maintain, preserve and strengthen the existing road surface,” Pitt says.
“This section of the Landsborough Highway carries more than 320 vehicles each day, of which 30 per cent are heavy vehicles.
“It is an important agricultural link to central western Queensland, transporting livestock across the state.
“This work will help us keep our rural communities connected by maintaining reliable roads and providing safer and smoother travelling conditions for all road users.”
Preparation for the maintenance works began in July, with the resealing works scheduled to be completed in November, weather permitting.
Pitt says the highway also served as a vital connection to many of Queensland’s historic sites.
“These sites attract thousands of tourists each year from all around the state – many who are not used to the long roads and extended travel times.
“Main Roads is helping travellers take breaks on these trips by installing new rest facilities on the Landsborough Highway.
“The new rest area is located about 110 kilometres from Longreach and includes toilets, rubbish bins and a sealed parking area for motorists to park safely.
“While driver behaviour is an overwhelming factor in fatigue-related crashes, Main Roads’ improvements to the road environment will help make a difference.”
Pitt says the $312,000 rest area project is scheduled for completion by the end of September, weather permitting.
“Driving while tired is a major factor in many crashes, for this reason I urge motorists to plan their trip and take regular breaks to avoid fatigue.”