New motorway ramps are a step closer to becoming reality after the state government released a draft concept for community feedback and invited companies to submit detailed design proposals.
The project will deliver two new south-facing ramps to the Sunshine Motorway at Mount Coolum, alongside an upgraded Sunshine Motorway-West Coolum Road interchange.
The upgrades integrate with Sunshine Coast Council’s plans to connect Suncoast Beach Drive and South Coolum Road to West Coolum Road.
The ramps are expected to ease congestion and improve travel for motorists from Coolum Beach, Yaroomba, Mount Coolum and Marcoola.
An invitation‑only tender has been sent to a select group of qualified experts to complete the detailed design work for the upgrade, which should help ease congestion at the busy Yandina-Coolum Road roundabout.
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To inform the next stage, a draft concept for the two new south‑facing ramps has also been released for community feedback.
Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said the project was long‑overdue and it would make a significant difference for locals.
“Communities like Coolum and Mount Coolum are growing quickly, and they deserve infrastructure that keeps pace,” he said.
“For too long, locals have been stuck in traffic.”
The project is related to a broader plan to upgrade the stretch of motorway between Pacific Paradise and Coolum Beach, including lane duplication and a new interchange at Coolum-Yandina Road.
Member for Ninderry Dan Purdie said the project was vital to keep pace with growth across the northern Sunshine Coast.
“We are working together with Sunshine Coast Council to progress planning and ensure the local road network will be ready to connect to this vital new intersection on the Sunshine Motorway,” he said.
“Planning for these improvements is an important next step towards busting congestion at the Yandina-Coolum Road roundabout and ensuring the road network can meet the needs of residents well into the future.”
Member for Maroochydore Fiona Simpson said it was an opportunity for locals to have their say on the proposed concept, which aimed to overcome safety and congestion issues on key intersections and local roads.
“Locals know these roads better than anyone, and I encourage the community to have their say on this important concept so we can deliver better connectivity, greater safety and a better lifestyle through a stronger economy,” she said.
Community feedback is open until May 15, and will help inform the next phase of the project.
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