Works have officially started on the Palaszczuk Government’s $30 million Eastern Transitway project, supporting 50 jobs.
Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey joined local MPs today to turn the sod on the first stage of the congestion-tackling project, which will also lock in 50 jobs for the region as it continues to recover from COVID-19.
Member for Capalaba Don Brown said the project was a game changer for families in Brisbane’s east and the Redlands with travel times to improve for drivers as well as the 8,000 commuters and 430 bus services who travel along the road during peak periods.
“Our community is hungry for public transport,” Mr Brown said.
“That’s why we’re building the Eastern Transitway: to free up traffic for buses and cars, unlike the LNP who cut funding for public transport in our suburbs as part of their $1.6 billion slash and burn on the state’s road budget.
“With the huge numbers of people take up bike riding because of COVID-19, we’ve also expanded the scope to include a new, 3m-wide, shared path, and on-road, bike-lane improvements.”
Member for Redlands Kim Richards said the benefits of the project would be two-fold: addressing congestion and creating all-important jobs in construction.
"Our community’s strong response to the health impacts of COVID-19 means the Palaszczuk Government has been able to continue delivering projects like this and the $60 million Cleveland-Redland Bay Road upgrades,” Ms Richards said.
"Investing in Queensland infrastructure means creating Queensland jobs as we unite and recover from COVID-19.
"Our community wants more incentives to take public transport. Projects like this, the $5.4 billion Cross River Rail and $371 million smart ticketing project are part of the Palaszczuk Government's commitment to creating more transport infrastructure for Queenslanders.
Honoured to be turning the sod on The Eastern Transitway.
Shovels in the ground comes as consultation on the transitway officially wrapped up last month, with feedback showing the majority of the community supported the transport solution.
“The community told us that improving environmental outcomes in the local area was something else they wanted out of the project.
“Because project teams have consulted with environmental groups we’ve been able to look at new fauna fencing, crossings and revegetation as part of the project.”
To have your say or for more information visit www.tmr.qld.gov.au and search Eastern Transitway.