Major Upgrade Set to Transform Queensland’s Mount Lindesay Highway
The long-anticipated Mount Lindesay Highway upgrade is finally on the horizon, bringing significant changes to the community and local infrastructure.
This $95 million project, aimed at improving safety, reducing congestion, and enhancing efficiency, is a crucial development for the Queensland area, especially for residents and businesses between Johanna Street and South Street. With construction set to begin in November, the Mount Lindesay Highway is on track to meet growing demands.
A $95 Million Step Towards Modernisation
Local contractor See Civil has been awarded the contract for this substantial infrastructure upgrade, marking an essential step forward for Queensland’s transportation network. This move underscores a commitment by the Queensland Government to invest in major infrastructure projects that will benefit the local economy. Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, and Local Government Minister Catherine King stated: “These important upgrades to the Mount Lindesay Highway will reduce congestion and improve safety and connectivity for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers. They will also support an average of 70 jobs over the life of the project.”
But what’s exactly in the works? The project will transform this busy corridor with widened lanes, better intersections, and a new bridge—bringing both immediate and long-term benefits to Jimboomba and surrounding areas.
What the Upgrade Entails
The Mount Lindesay Highway duplication project aims to upgrade a key freight and commuter route that has struggled under increased traffic pressure in recent years. The highway serves as a vital link for local residents and businesses and is also a major freight route, which has added to its congestion woes.
The new construction plans promise a host of improvements:
- Widening the Highway: The highway will be widened to four lanes between Johanna Street and South Street, which should significantly ease congestion and ensure a smoother journey for motorists.
- New Southbound Bridge: A new southbound bridge will be constructed over the disused rail corridor, adding further capacity and reducing bottlenecks.
- Intersection Improvements: Key intersections at Johanna Street, Tamborine Street, and South Street will be improved, making commutes easier and safer for drivers.
- Shared Underpass: A shared pedestrian and bike underpass along the disused rail corridor will also be built, enhancing connectivity and safety for non-motorised commuters.
- Service Road Relocation: The access to and from Brisbane Street (service road) will be relocated, streamlining the traffic flow.
These enhancements are designed to improve traffic efficiency, increase capacity, and support the growing population in the region. The removal of the northbound left turn at South Street will also help manage traffic more effectively, while the extended left turn lane at Tamborine Street will allow for improved southbound highway access.
Government Commitment and Investment
The Mount Lindesay Highway project is part of a larger, decade-long strategy to upgrade this crucial transportation route. This ten-year plan, spanning from 2018 to 2028, reflects both the Australian and Queensland Governments’ commitment to enhancing transport infrastructure in the area, ensuring these roads keep pace with population growth and evolving demands.
The project’s funding breakdown sees $63.4 million provided by the Australian Government, with the Queensland Government contributing $31.6 million. State Member for Logan, Linus Power, emphasised the importance of these upgrades, particularly for local residents: “Jimboomba locals are also set to benefit with increased lanes and intersection upgrades at Johanna and Tamborine streets, and South and Brisbane streets. Working with locals, I’ll keep fighting to continue improving the Mount Lindesay Highway.”
For many, the prospect of less time spent in traffic and safer conditions for pedestrians and cyclists is a welcome change—not to mention the job creation and economic stimulation the construction phase is expected to bring.
Improved School Access and Community Benefits
One of the notable features of this upgrade is the focus on community-centric improvements. Beyond just accommodating more vehicles, the project also considers local infrastructure such as schools and community areas. The parking at Jimboomba State School, for instance, will be optimised to enhance safety and efficiency for parents during drop-off and pick-up times.
QLD Transport and Main Roads Minister Bart Mellish highlighted the significance of the forward-planned stages, noting: “It’s great to see the 10-year forward plan continue to progress into delivery across stages. This is a great win for Jimboomba.” The emphasis on community benefits shows that this isn’t just about improving a highway—it’s about making life better for everyone in the area.
A Collaborative Effort for Long-Term Gains
Collaboration between local, state, and federal governments underpins the Mount Lindesay Highway upgrade. The dual funding arrangement ensures that the project has sufficient resources to achieve its ambitious goals. It’s a clear example of how different government levels can work together to bring about significant benefits for communities.
Not just that, but by engaging a local contractor—See Civil—the economic benefits stay within Queensland, providing work for local tradespeople and supporting related industries in the area. It’s an approach that guarantees both immediate improvements to infrastructure and long-term economic resilience.
A Major Freight and Commuter Route Set for Transformation
The Mount Lindesay Highway plays a pivotal role in supporting freight operations throughout Queensland, with a significant portion of heavy vehicles relying on this route. These improvements are expected to ease freight movement, creating a more efficient transport corridor that benefits businesses reliant on timely deliveries.
Catherine King reiterated the importance of the route: “The Mount Lindesay Highway is a critical freight route, and this upgrade will improve safety and efficiency in this area.” By reducing congestion and bottlenecks, the duplication project will improve travel times for both freight and regular commuter traffic, creating a much-needed boost for local businesses and the economy.
Local Community Involvement and Anticipation
The community has played an essential role in shaping the scope and focus of the project. By involving local residents in the planning and keeping them updated on progress, the project aims to mitigate disruptions and address concerns directly related to road closures, diversions, and safety measures during construction.
The general mood in Jimboomba appears optimistic, with locals keen to see the benefits of increased lanes and intersection upgrades. Enhanced safety measures, especially near schools and busy intersections, are viewed as a critical improvement that will make a real difference to daily life.
A Positive Path Forward
With construction set to kick off in November, the Mount Lindesay Highway upgrade is a beacon of progress for the Queensland community. It’s not just about laying asphalt; it’s about laying the foundation for a safer, more efficient, and connected future. Local residents, businesses, and daily commuters all stand to gain from this substantial investment in infrastructure.
The combination of improved freight efficiency, better local traffic conditions, and enhanced community amenities ensures that this upgrade delivers across multiple fronts. Queensland’s 10-year vision for the Mount Lindesay Highway is turning into reality, one project at a time, and Jimboomba is set to reap the rewards of these transformative changes.
