Sunshine Coast mayor Rosanna Natoli says a $27 million streetscape project will provide a “seamless connection” between business and community hubs in the heart of the Sunshine Coast.
The mayor lauded the First Avenue Upgrade, which is well underway, at Maroochydore.
It’s expected to provide more efficient and appealing links between the new city centre, Duporth Avenue, Ocean Street and Cotton Tree.
“This is the missing piece in the puzzle and I’m pleased to see works start on what will seamlessly connect our popular centres together,” she said.
“This puts people first with safer crossings and slower traffic allowing families, seniors and people with mobility devices to move with confidence in the growing area.”
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The project is being delivered by funding from Sunshine Coast Council ($15.9 million) and the federal government ($11.9 million).
It will include new and improved crossings, a scramble crossing, upgraded and widened footpaths, upgraded underground services, extended kerbing and landscaped areas with new street furniture.
The speed limit will be permanently reduced from 50km/h to 40km/h, two bus stops will be relocated and 19 on-street car parks will be removed.
Councillor Joe Natoli said the traffic calming on First Avenue would support that already undertaken on Duporth Avenue.
“The landscaped and generously wide shared pathways give people a comfortable, shaded route through Maroochydore to the river and beach, and will provide a practical connection to the Safe Night Precinct,” he said.
“When it’s easier and safer to get around on foot or on a bike, our streets come alive and support healthier lifestyles.”
Queensland Senator Corinne Mulholland said locals had been calling for an upgrade.
“Maroochydore has always been the business hub of the Sunshine Coast but now we’re backing it to become the beating heart of the coast; an even more vibrant, connected and people-focused centre where families, workers and visitors want to spend time,” she said.
“With the world’s eyes turning to South-East Queensland ahead of the Olympics, we’re making sure the Sunshine Coast looks and feels ready, especially since Alexandra Headland will be hosting the road cycling, marathon, kiteboarding and more.
“I see this investment as rolling out the red carpet for Maroochydore and the Sunshine Coast. It’s creating a welcoming, green, and accessible public spaces that showcase the very best of our region to locals and visitors alike.”
GRC Civil general manager Rob Adair said he was proud to partner with council while his team of locals were keen to contribute to the project.
“This project is incredibly important to us, with around 70 local people employed or engaged as contractors, meaning we are supporting families and businesses right here in our community,” he said.
Seventy new trees and 2000 plants are part of the upgrade to cool the street and create places to stop, chat and enjoy.
“Greener streets aren’t just attractive but are cool in summer and better for local business because people stay longer,” Cr Natoli said.
“For traders, improved footpaths, clearer access and relocated bus stops reduce conflict at the kerbside and make deliveries and drop-offs smoother.
“Upgrading the underground services is the unglamorous part, but it’s vital. Reliable power, water and communications underpin a thriving CBD and in turn support growth, jobs and the confidence to invest in Maroochydore.”
This project started in early February and is expected to be completed in 2027, weather and site conditions permitting.
