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Townsville Queensland 4810
Townsville’s New infrastructure projects propel economic recovery
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Construction of a new pedestrian bridge in Townsville’s city centre and upgraded facilities on Magnetic Island are set to create new local jobs and deliver a post-flood shot-in-the-arm for the region.
The $7.4 million Reid Park Active Transport Bridge and $2.35 million Magnetic Island Forts Junction Hub upgrade will be funded through the Palaszczuk Government’s $40 million Growth Area and Regional Infrastructure Investment Fund (GARIIF).
Member for Townsville Scott Stewart said the projects will improve liveability and bring more employment to the north.
“Jobs for Queensland, and in particular our regions, are top priority for the Palaszczuk Government,” Mr Stewart said.
“Infrastructure projects like this will put more Townsville residents into work and will boost our economy as we continue to recover following this year’s unprecedented flooding.
“The Reid Park Active Transport Bridge is crucial to ensure the efficient operation of North Queensland Stadium, delivering improved, safer and more direct access between park-and-ride facilities and our city’s new sports and entertainment precinct.
“On Magnetic Island, development of public facilities and a fit‐for‐purpose carpark for the heritage‐listed Fort Complex will allow more people to experience the tourist destination while addressing existing traffic and public safety issues.
“The projects are expected to support a total of 35 jobs during construction,” he said.
“Townsville has just endured one of its most challenging periods, so this type of investment could not come at a better time.”
Minister for State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning Cameron Dick said the Palaszczuk Government’s coordinated approach to delivering infrastructure was benefitting all Queenslanders.
“GARIIF, along with our $295 million Building our Regions initiative, is making our state stronger by stimulating work and propelling local economies forward,” Mr Dick said.
“The Palaszczuk Government is proud to back job-creating projects like these, which will generate critical community infrastructure that will be of benefit to locals every day.”
Minister for Public Works Mick de Brenni said providing better access to public facilities for all Queenslanders remains a key focus of the Palaszczuk Government.
“The new active transport bridge will improve accessibility to attractions in the Townsville City Waterfront Priority Development Area, including North Queensland Stadium,” Mr de Brenni said.
Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the Reid Park pedestrian bridge adds to the Palaszczuk Government’s ongoing commitment to transport infrastructure for Townsville
“This includes the $43.5 million Riverway Drive duplication project and Port of Townsville channel upgrade,” Mr Bailey said.
Minister for Environment Leeanne Enoch said the Magnetic Island works will ensure the national park’s history and beauty can be observed and preserved in the years ahead.
“This is about best managing visitor movements to the island, so tourists and locals can keep experiencing the magnificence of Magnetic Island,” Ms Enoch said.
Reid Park Active Transport Bridge will be delivered by the Department of Transport and Main Roads, while Magnetic Island Forts Junction Hub upgrade will be led by the Department of Environment and Science.
Learn more about the Palaszczuk Government’s infrastructure policy and investment
Attribution: Minister for State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning
The Honourable Cameron Dick Media Statements QLD via qld.gov.au
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