$244m funding to deliver works on two North QLD transport corridors

Approximately $244 million has been invested by Federal Labor to upgrade and complete two major North Queensland transport corridors.

$100 million of the investment will fund works to improve the Mount Isa to Townsville rail corridor while the remaining $144 million will help complete the Townsville Ring Road.

The more than 1,000-kilometre Mount Isa rail line serves as a vital link for various industries in the region - including the mineral, metals, cattle and freight industries. According to Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey, funding from Federal labor will help improve the rail line’s capacity and efficiency as well as protect it during severe weather conditions.

“The Mount Isa Line plays a critical role connecting our region’s industries and communities, including the growing commodities sector.

“The $100 million pledged by Federal Labor will go a long way to ensuring this corridor from the minerals province to one of Australia’s largest ports at Townsville is better equipped to deal with severe weather,” Mr Bailey said.

Source: Department of Transport and Main Roads

On the other hand, the $144 million funding for the last stage of the Townsville Ring Road will help upgrade the remaining six-kilometre stretch of the highway to four lanes and deliver works on a new interchange at Beck Drive.

“This investment will provide the final link to the Townsville Ring Road, busting congestion, lowering freight cost and greatly improving safety on the Bruce Highway,” Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said.

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Source: Queensland Government (1, 2); Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development; The North West Star