Queensland residents draws to the attention of the House the urgent need for upgraded road infrastructure to support the rapidly growing Northern Suburbs of Townsville. For too long, the needs of commuters in this area have been overlooked. The population of Townsville is expanding north, with more families choosing to call the northern corridor home.

Woolcock Street from the Veales Road intersection to the Ingham Road intersection has reached capacity. Key intersections, including Shaw Road, North Shore Boulevard, Garland Road, Deeragun Road, Wagner Street and Mount Low Parkway are struggling to handle the high volumes of traffic. Peak-hour congestion has become a daily frustration, and any disruptions, such as roadworks, accidents, or flooding over the lower (northbound) Bohle River Bridge, brings traffic to a standstill.

The residents and commuters in the northern suburbs deserve road infrastructure that is fit for purpose. Necessary upgrades should include, but are not limited to:

-              Additional lanes to alleviate congestion.

-              Dedicated bicycle lanes to support alternative transport options.

-              Flyovers at critical intersections to improve traffic flow.

-              Raising the lower (northbound) Bohle River Bridge to prevent flooding disruptions.

-              A pedestrian bridge over Woolcock Street to connect Burdell and Deeragun for improved safety.

Your petitioners, therefore, request the House to prioritise and expedite the planning, design, and construction of these critical upgrades along the Bruce Highway and Woolcock Street corridor, ensuring the Northern Suburbs can thrive as a key part of Townsville’s future.