A key Mooloolaba intersection that experienced major roadworks has reopened, as upgrades continue on a transport corridor that’s expected to cater for 90,000 commuters a day.
The key intersection, at the corner of Walan and Hancock streets, has reopened after extensive underground services works that included mains water, sewer, stormwater and telecommunications were undertaken at the intersection since late April.
It’s part of the Mooloolaba Transport Corridor Upgrade, a four-stage project designed to improve safety and traffic flow, reduce delays during peak periods and cater for future traffic growth in Mooloolaba. The project includes the widening of Brisbane Road and Walan Street, from two to four traffic lanes.
The first stage was completed in 2019, while stages two and three are in progress and stage four is expected to start next year.
Sunshine Coast Council Division 4 Councillor Joe Natoli said the extensive works would help to ‘future proof’ Mooloolaba.
“After a period of complex construction, we’re now meeting some major milestones including the July opening of two of the four lanes of the new Mayes Canal bridge and now the main intersection flowing again,” he said.
“The construction blitz of Stages 2 and 3 is a key part of the planning, aimed at having major roadworks completed by the end of this year.
“Brisbane Road’s two lanes will be expanded to four to improve traffic flow, enhance the southern entrance into Mooloolaba and create a corridor that is integrated and inviting for pedestrians, cyclists, motorists, and public transport users.
“Next time you’re driving on the new intersection remember there’s more to it, than what meets the eye.
“Below the asphalt, large trenches were dug out during the night which made way for 345m of storm water pipes and 235m of water main pipes.
“In the next few months, the new Foote Street, Brisbane Road and Tarcoola Avenue signalised intersection will experience similar underground infrastructure works.
“To keep two-way traffic moving along Foote Street, the central island car parking, between Brisbane Road and Burnett Street will be temporarily removed for about two months.
“This will allow the construction team to use the island area as a temporary traffic lane and keep traffic feeding from Parkyn Parade, the Esplanade and River Esplanade.”
To make room for the signalised intersection upgrade, some parking spaces in this area will not be reinstated in the final design.
Stage 2 works are benefitting from a $12 million investment from the Federal Government.
Once completed the MTCU will accommodate anticipated growth in traffic generated by residents, businesses and Mooloolaba’s attractive natural features, with daily trips expected to increase from around 61,000 today to more than 90,000 in 2041.
Council said it will continue to make every effort to minimise impacts to the local community and businesses during construction and thanks the community for their patience during this major construction project.
For more information about the project, visit Mooloolaba Transport Corridor Upgrade or to register for construction updates, email your details to mtcu@sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au.
MTCU timeline
The Mooloolaba Transport Corridor Upgrade widening of Brisbane Road and Walan Street is a multi-stage upgrade project.
- Stage 1a: (completed in October 2019) $2 million extension of Naroo Court through to Muraban Street including a new roundabout.
- Stage 1b: (completed in April 2021) $8.5 million Walan Street upgrade between Venning Street and Smith Street to four traffic lanes.
- Stages 2 and 3 Brisbane Road upgrade (early 2021 to early 2023) Located along Brisbane Road between Walan Street and Kyamba Court. These two stages include the widening of Brisbane Road from two lanes to four lanes, intersection upgrade, provision for cyclists, landscaping and the new Mayes Canal Bridge.
- Stage 4 (starting 2023) Brisbane Road, from Kyamba Court to Tuckers Creek Bridge, will be upgraded and widened to four lanes. The upgrade includes a new signalised intersection at Bindaree Crescent, Brisbane Road and Woomba Place and road works on both sides of the bridge/
All stages and scheduled timeframes may change subject to weather, site conditions, council’s budget process and other funding.
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