State Budget must deliver on road safety for Mackay
RACQ Head of Public Policy Susan Furze said given Queensland’s horrific road toll it was vital the Government acted to better protect drivers by accelerating road upgrades and increasing visible police presence.
“Sadly, we’re on track for one of the worst years for road deaths with 18 people killed in the Northern police region and a further 41 in Central Queensland since 1 January,” Ms Furze said.
“Our members tell us a visible on road police presence is the most effective way to change driver behaviour and acts as a reminder of the Fatal Five.
“Safer roads also lead to fewer crashes and Mackay locals deserve to have good quality roads, that are well policed, to prevent further serious and fatal injuries.”
Ms Furze encouraged the Government to fast-track business cases and investment for local major projects, including those with Federal funding allocations.
“We need the State Government to deliver its share of the money to improve safety, accessibility and the condition of our regional roads, so Queenslanders don’t have to wait any longer for much-needed transport upgrades,” she said.
“In particular, we want to see the Mackay Ring Road Stage 2 project accelerated, safety and flood immunity works on the Gregory Developmental Road and Peak Downs Highway including Walkerston Bypass and the duplication of the Bruce Highway between Sarina and Mackay.
“There’s also a prime opportunity for the Government to take advantage of the $3 billion Federal Road Safety Program to fund and deliver low-cost, high-benefit upgrades to other high-risk State roads including Proserpine Shute Harbour Road, Mackay Eungella Road, Mackay Slade Point Road, Mackay Bucasia Road, Sarina Coast Road, Yakapari Seaforth Road and Bowen Developmental Road.
“Queenslanders expect all levels of Government to work together and get the job done.”
RACQ’s full priority transport projects could be found here.
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