The Federal and Queensland governments have developed a strategy to improve safety on the Kennedy Highway through a stretch known locally as Kuranda Range Road, with both governments also committing $262.5 million to the strategy.
The strategy aims to reduce the amount and length of unplanned closures on the road. As part of the strategy, Queensland’s Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) – which led the work – is proposing several upgrades.
This includes a safe turn-around area, suitable for vehicles up to 19 metres, to provide an option to turn around and change travel plans in case Kuranda Range Road is unexpectedly closed.
Another upgrade would see a concrete median barrier at the bend locally known as ‘The Hairpin’ to reduce the risk of head-on crashes. Another suggestion is the installation of a further 10 Intelligent Transport Systems technology stations on Kuranda Range Road covering a further 5.5 kilometres. These stations provide real time information to Traffic Management Centre operators to detect hazards and monitor changes in road conditions and traffic behaviour.
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Other options in the strategy include additional guardrails, shoulder widening, centre line treatments, vegetation management and slope stability treatments.
Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads Bart Mellish said the Government is listening to road users to provide improved road connections throughout the region.
“Tropical Cyclone Jasper has underlined the importance of safe and resilient roads that connect Cairns and the Tablelands,” Mellish said.
“While our focus is on the repair works, we are developing a program of treatments at strategic locations where they are most beneficial to reduce the incidence and duration of unplanned closures and to allow road users safe and reliable travel up and down the range.”
To access the strategy, click here.