After months of waiting and years of lobbying, the southern section of the Brisbane Valley Highway will finally see resurfacing begin.
Member for Nanango, Deb Frecklington, Member for Lockyer, Jim McDonald and Mayor Graeme Lehmann said the announcement is years overdue, but a win for the community.
“The real winners here are the thousands of people who use the Brisbane Valley Highway each day and know just how bad it has become,” Mrs Frecklington said.
“These are works Jim and I have been fighting for along with the Somerset Regional Council and the community, and it’s about time the Labor Government heard our calls.
“The works will take place over 26 km of the Brisbane Valley Hwy between Esk and Fernvale,” Deb said.
Member for Lockyer, Jim McDonald said the Brisbane Valley Highway needs to be built to a highway standard, with intersections upgraded and the road safe for all motorists.
“As a former police officer, I understand how dangerous this stretch of road can be and how desperately needed these upgrades are,” Mr McDonald said.
“My local community has been raising concerns about the highway for a long time and it is the number one issue for the Fernvale community.”
“I’m glad we have been able to deliver these improvements and finally have the Labor Government recognise that this Highway needs attention,” he said.
Mayor Graeme Lehmann said Somerset Regional Council has long been campaigning for funding for upgrades to the Brisbane Valley Highway.
“This a 6% annual increase in traffic on the Brisbane Valley Highway just south of Fernvale,” Mayor Lehmann said.
“Upgrading transport opportunities and connectivity for rural regions is vital for long-term sustainability, safety and freight efficiency. These works are step towards improving this connectivity for the Somerset and safety for our community.”
Resurfacing works are schedule to take place from mid-February and will take about eight weeks to complete. Motorists may experience minor delays during single lane closures.
Works are due to start in February, and are expected to take about eight weeks to complete, weather permitting.
Photo: Member for Nanango, Deb Frecklington, Member for Lockyer, Jim McDonald and Somerset Regional Council Mayor, Graeme Lehmann discuss the works on the Brisbane Valley Highway
