Work Starts on Western Links to Second Range Crossing

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One eastbound and one westbound lane of the Warrego Highway at Charlton, 10km west of Toowoomba, has been closed to allow for work starting on a key interchange between the Toowoomba Second Range Crossing (TSRC) and Warrego Highway.

Motorists can expect minor delays due to the single lane closures.

Transport and Main Roads Regional Director (Downs South West) Kym Murphy said work had also started on the Gore Highway interchange with the TSRC at Athol, 20km west of Toowoomba.

“The interchanges will be vital links between the TSRC, the busy western and southern transport corridors and Toowoomba’s fast-developing western industrial precinct,” Ms Murphy said.

Impacts on road users on the Gore Highway will be limited to a reduction in speed to 70 kilometres an hour through the work zone.

“The Warrego Highway works at Charlton may cause short delays due to the lane closures, especially during peak hours,” Ms Murphy said.

“We urge drivers to plan ahead and allow a few minutes of extra time for travel during peak hours on the Warrego Highway west of Toowoomba.”

Work on the two interchanges is expected to be completed by the end of 2017, construction and weather conditions permitting.

Ms Murphy urged motorists to drive safely around the road works sites, especially when merging with other traffic at the start of the lane closures on the Warrego Highway.

“Roadworks are necessary to build new roads and keep our existing ones safe — however, roadwork sites can be dangerous,” she said.

“Please take extra care when driving through roadworks — this is for your safety and the safety of the road workers, who are improving our roads.

“During these works at Charlton, where there are lanes marked on the road — if your lane comes to an end, you must give way to traffic already in the lane you are moving to.

“If there are no lanes marked on the road — when lines of traffic merge, you must give way to any vehicle that is ahead of you.”

Three signalised intersections will be built as part of the Warrego West interchange to allow road users to safely turn in and out of the TSRC, Nass Road and Wirth Road.

Ms Murphy said a heavy vehicle rest area would be constructed to the west of the interchange, with access via Nass Road. The two existing heavy vehicle rest areas on the Warrego Highway at Charlton are within the project corridor and will be permanently closed before construction commences in the area.

“We apologise for any inconvenience caused by the lane closures and appreciate your patience while these important construction works are being carried out,” she said.

“Every effort will be made to minimise the impact on traffic on this important national highway.”

To help you plan your trip in and around the Toowoomba region, stay up-to-date with TSRC traffic impacts by visiting the traffic page at www.nexustsrc.com.au.

For information about state-wide traffic please visit www.QLDtraffic.qld.gov.au or phone 13 19 40.