Preliminary works have started on two sites on the Palmerston Highway following damage from Tropical Cyclone Jasper and associated flooding.
These preliminary works began on December 11, with plans to start reconstruction works promptly after the Christmas/New Year period.
Complex geotechnical works will be undertaken at the sites with the permanent reconstruction works involving cast in-situ concrete piles, soil nailing, gabion structures and landscaping and hydromulching.
Transport and Main Roads North Queensland Regional Director, Ross Hodgman explained, “Since the completion of the emergency repair phase, a great deal of work has gone on behind the scenes, into surveying and geotechnical inspections, planning, designing and engaging contractors through a tender and contract award process.
“The magnitude of the reconstruction works to be delivered cannot be understated.
“At both sites, more than 7 kilometres of soil nails and micro piles will be needed – that’s the equivalent of four times the height of Mt Bartle Frere – Queensland’s highest mountain.
“There’s 1200 lineal metres of cast in-situ concrete piling, about 1200 cubic metres of concrete – around half an Olympic sized swimming pool – and more than 2000 lineal metres of high tensile steel mesh, which will be used to stabilise both sites.
During the preliminary works, both sites will operate under changed traffic conditions which will include single lane closures and a reduced speed limit through the site.
“TMR is aware of the importance of the road to the freight industry, as the only designated route for B-doubles and Type 1 road trains between the coast and Atherton Tablelands,” Hodgman added.
“TMR is working closely with environmental authorities to ensure that works within the sensitive and unique environment are appropriately managed and closely monitored.
“We will work with the contractor to minimise impacts on the community as much as possible, however, the nature of the works means traffic delays and changed traffic conditions will be unavoidable.”
The recovery works are jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).