Plan to double capacity of the Sunshine Motorway upgrade is now underway

February 23, 2023

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Consultation to close on the 26th of February regarding plans to further duplicate to four lanes for the Sunshine Motorway upgrade.

The 10-kilometre section between Pacific Paradise and Coolum has been identified for future duplication to four lanes to accommodate growth.

The additional lanes will increase safety, connectivity, and efficiency.

“The north-south Sunshine Motorway plays a critical role in moving more than 30,000 vehicles each day between Maroochydore and northern communities like Noosa and Eumundi,” says Minister for Transport and Main Roads Mark Bailey.

“Additional lanes will ensure a reliable transport network which is essential for moving people and goods, as well as supporting businesses and jobs for generations to come,” says Minister for Transport and Main Roads Mark Bailey.

“We know lifestyle is important to residents and these upgrades will help ease congestion and cut travel times, with active transport inclusions providing new opportunities to enjoy visiting areas on two wheels or foot,” says Minister for Transport and Main Roads Mark Bailey.

“The Palaszczuk Government will be delivering almost $3.1 billion worth of road and transport infrastructure projects across the Sunshine Coast and surrounding areas over the next four years,” says Minister for Transport and Main Roads Mark Bailey.

The key features of the preferred option include:

An option to provide south-facing ramps at West Coolum Road
Upgrading the Yandina-Coolum Road roundabout to a grade separated interchange
Ralignment of Yandina-Coolum Road, west of the motorway
Smart Motorways infrastructure, including Variable Speed Limit Signs and CCTV cameras
Fauna fencing to provide greater protection for wildlife next to the corridor
Culvert and drainage improvements to improve flood resilience in low-lying areas
Additional water quality treatment devices to reduce the impact on Maroochy River health.

“Community feedback will help refine the preferred option so the business case for construction can progress,” says Member for Nicklin Rob Skelton.

“We have invited the community to be involved in this project since the start,” says Member for Nicklin Rob Skelton.

“Last year we consulted on key interests and experiences along the link and asked for suggested improvements, which were used to develop the preferred option,” says Member for Nicklin Rob Skelton.

“I encourage the community to have a look at the plans and let us know what they think before it closes this weekend,” says Member for Nicklin Rob Skelton.

Source: © The State of Queensland 1997–2023

Image source: © The State of Queensland 1997–2023