Truckies can look forward to having two new heavy vehicle rest areas for their exclusive use on the Bruce Highway near Booyal from next summer.
A Transport and Main Roads spokesperson told Big Rigs that the southbound rest area will be located near Marule Road and the northbound rest area near Ringwood Road.
The rest areas will be for heavy vehicles only, with appropriate signs to inform motorists, the spokesperson added.
“Each rest area will include six 35m parking bays for heavy vehicles, a shaded area with seating and basic amenities such as toilets.”
The rest areas are part of a bigger safety project between North South Road and Ringwood Road, and include a right-turn lane into Adies Road, and a wide centre line treatment.
The works are funded under the Bruce Highway Upgrade Program, with $12.84 million allocated.
The heavy vehicle rest areas are funded as part of a $6.08 million allocation by the Australian Government to upgrade rest areas along the Bruce Highway between Gympie and Benaraby.
Federal Member for Hinkler Keith Pitt said these crucial projects would improve road safety along the Bruce Highway.
“A right-turn lane at the Adies Road intersection is something residents have called for and we’re pleased to be able to deliver this important safety measure,” Pitt said.
“The new right-turn lane will separate through and turning traffic, reducing the potential for rear-end crashes.
“The road will also be widened and a one-metre wide centre line will be installed, to increase the distance between motorists travelling in opposite directions and reduce the risk of head-on crashes.
Queensland Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said he’s pleased to see construction underway for the safety of locals and tourists, as well as truckies who have worked hard over the past two years to keep Queensland moving.
“We expect construction to take about 10 months to complete, weather permitting, and we ask that locals drive to the conditions while works are ongoing,” Bailey said.