Accessing the northern Gold Coast suburb of Ormeau is now safer, easier and more reliable with the upgraded M1 Exit 45 southbound off-ramp open, says Transport Minister Catherine King.
The $20 million project is the first of three northern Gold Coast M1 interchanges completed, with work ongoing to upgrade Exit 41 (Yatala South) and Exit 49 (Pimpama).
Lanes have been added to the Ormeau Interchange off-ramp to increase capacity, with a new left-turn slip lane making it easier for drivers to turn onto northbound Lahrs Road.
“This is win for local motorists, and will improve freight access to the industrial areas,” said King.
“We’ve seen rapid industrial and residential growth in Ormeau, so this southbound off-ramp upgrade was vital.”
Truckies heading to the eastern end of Eggersdorf Road and beyond no longer need to travel through the eastern interchange roundabout when exiting the motorway.
Traffic signals have also been installed at the off-ramp intersection with Lahrs Road and Zupp Drive, and extra roundabout metering signals added on the eastern roundabout.
The increased capacity and new signals will significantly reduce southbound off-ramp queueing during peak periods, and improve access and reliability for freight heading into Ormeau.
State Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey says this is a growing region of the Gold Coast, particularly in the industrial sector, so is pleased this congestion busting project is now complete.
“The Palaszczuk Government has invested over $5 billion in the M1 over the past few years, from Logan all the way to the Tugun, to keep communities connected,” said Bailey.
“As the busiest highway in the state, it’s important we continue this high level of investment.
The Ormeau Interchange safety upgrade was funded 50:50 between the Australian and Queensland governments.