Busy Oxley intersection upgraded to improve traffic flow and safety

New traffic signals at the intersection of Seventeen Mile Rocks Road, Duporth Road and Ormond Road in Seventeen Mile Rocks were commissioned today.

Minister for Major Projects Paul Fletcher said the project to install the new signals was part of a major upgrade to improve traffic flow and safety for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.

“The $12.32 million project was jointly funded by the Australian Government – through its Roads to Recovery Programme – and Brisbane City Council,” Mr Fletcher said.

“The upgrade will support current and future traffic growth in the area, through which Seventeen Mile Rocks Road carries approximately 16,000 vehicles and Duporth Road carries around 7000 vehicles, every day.

“Traffic congestion in Brisbane costs businesses and residents around $1.3 billion a year, a figure that could blow out to $3 billion by 2020 if the right level of investment in the city’s transport system is not made now.”

Lord Mayor Graham Quirk said the intersection is a serious choke point, with motorists turning right out of Duporth Road experiencing delays of up to four minutes during the morning peak period.

“By widening and signalising the intersection we have addressed the vehicle movements that contribute to peak-hour congestion, helping to improve traffic flow and reduce travel times,” Cr Quirk said.

“The traffic signals also minimise the risk of dangerous traffic movements at this intersection, where nine accidents were recorded over a four-year period.

“Improving pedestrian and cyclist safety and connectivity at the intersection has also been a project priority.

“Council continues to work towards having five per cent of all trips undertaken by cycling and 15 per cent by walking, by 2026.

“I thank the Australian Government for its support in delivering this vital upgrade as we work together to future-proof our city’s transport network and keep Brisbane moving.”

The Australian Government is also jointly funding the $16.6 million Stapylton Road upgrade at Heathwood/Forest Lake, which is currently underway, and is providing funding under its Black Spot Programme to tackle accident black spots at 10 locations across Brisbane this financial year.

For more information about the Seventeen Mile Rocks, Duporth Road and Osborne Road intersection upgrade visit www.brisbane.qld.gov.au or phone (07) 3403 8888.