Palaszczuk Government motors ahead with Smithfield Bypass
05 September 2017
Queensland Government:
The long awaited
Smithfield Bypass
is a step closer after contractors had their first briefing about the
$152 million project this week.
Member for Barron River Craig Crawford said the event showed the
Palaszczuk Government was getting on with the job as fast as possible.
“I know how much this project means to the people of
Cairns, which is
why we are already engaging with the construction industry and potential
contractors,” Mr Crawford said.
“Once complete, it will dramatically shorten commutes to and from the
thriving Northern Beaches – meaning locals and visitors can spend less
time in the car, and more time with family and friends.
Acting Main Roads and Road Safety Minister Steven Miles said suitably
qualified contractors were invited to express interest in participating
in an ‘early contractor involvement’ (ECI) procurement process for the
$152 million project.
“Industry stakeholders have been briefed on the scope of the project and
provided with indicative dates for release of various construction and
engineering consultant contracts,” Mr Miles said.
“We have also invited suitably qualified and experienced contractors to
step forward and express interest in participating in an ECI procurement
process.
“Shortlisted contractors will then have the opportunity to undertake
further planning and preliminary design work.”
During the ECI phase, shortlisted contractors would have to demonstrate
how they intended to meet the Queensland Government’s recently announced
‘Buy Queensland’ policy, Mr Miles said
“There will undoubtedly be opportunities for involvement by Cairns-based
businesses,” he said.
Mr Miles commended the Cairns community and Mr Crawford for being such
strong advocates for the bypass.
“When it’s complete, the 3.8 kilometre-long road running parallel with
Captain Cook Highway will provide an alternative route between the
McGregor Road intersection and Yorkeys Knob Road intersection,” Mr Miles
said.
“Traffic modelling indicates the new road will reduce trip times between
McGregor Road and Yorkeys Knob Road by about 63 per cent during the
morning peak and 75 per cent during the afternoon peak.
“It will also reduce the risk of crashes at the busy roundabouts at
Smithfield and Caravonica.”
Mr Miles said construction of the Smithfield Bypass was on track to
start in late 2018, and would deliver significant benefits for local
industry.
“The business case indicates the project will support about 115
full-time jobs over its duration.”
--ENDS--
Source: Queensland Government - www.statements.qld.gov.au
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