A key phase of a $28m project is underway along one of the Sunshine Coast’s most heavily used roads.
Works have ramped up along First Avenue, where an upgrade is expected to improve traffic flow and safety, enhance the look and experience of the area and renew vital ageing underground infrastructure.
A Sunshine Coast Council representative said a local construction contractor was now involved in a critical and complicated phase of the project.
“GRC Civil’s many staff and subcontractors are working across multiple locations to progress key underground infrastructure and streetscape improvements as quickly as possible,” they told Sunshine Coast News.
“Works must be coordinated with major service providers including Energex, Telstra, NBN, Optus, TPG and Unitywater.
“The current stage of works is complex and intensive and mainly focused on upgrades to existing underground infrastructure, which is more than 60 years old and has reached the end of its working life.
“Major water main, electrical, telecommunications and stormwater drainage upgrade works must take place before the streetscape works can then move above ground.
“The underground works will ensure First Avenue and surrounding streets are well positioned to cater for future needs.”
A September community update also detailed the challenging scope of works.
“This stage of the project is mainly focused on what is under the road surface,” it stated.
“It’s a massive logistical exercise, but the underground works will ensure that First Avenue and surrounding streets will be future proofed for many generations to come.”
A construction notification advised locals of upcoming night works by Energex from Sunday, September 20 to Wednesday, September 23, from 6pm to 6am, and by Unitywater from Sunday, September 20 to Monday, September 21, 6pm to 6am.
Main works for The First Avenue Upgrade started in February and is expected to continue until mid-2027.
The representative said there has been “significant progress on underground infrastructure upgrades, including ongoing installation works for the new water main, electrical, telecommunications, and stormwater drainage being delivered across multiple construction zones”.
Works will progress on new pedestrian crossings, new footpaths, upgraded driveways, extensive landscaping, extended kerbing, new street furniture and more, in late 2026 or early 2027.
The upgrade will lead to a speed limit reduction from 50km/h to 40km/h, the relocation of two bus stops to The Esplanade and the removal of 19 on-street car parks.
A council spokesperson elaborated on the removal of the car parks, to SCN, earlier this year.
“While some parking will be reduced, there are still nearby off-street parking options and timed parking available to ensure convenience and turnover.”
“These changes have been carefully planned to balance accessibility with the benefits of a more pedestrian-friendly environment.
“By reallocating on‑street parking to create wider footpaths and safer pedestrian areas, we’re encouraging people to slow down, stay longer and explore local shops and cafes. This helps boost trade and supports a more vibrant, walkable town centre.
About 6000 to 9000 vehicles use the road per day.
The upgrade is backed by $15.9m in council funding and $11.9min federal funding,
“The completed upgrade will provide an attractive and safe environment for pedestrians and cyclists, improve and increase spaces for local businesses, help calm local traffic and will create cool, shady and green streets for all to enjoy,” the representative said.
First Avenue remains open to one-way traffic and pedestrians during construction, and all businesses remain open during the streetscape works.
“The project team is continuing to liaise with local businesses as required,” the representative said.
“We would like to thank our local community, including local business, for your cooperation and patience to date,” the council stated in the project update.
