Works powering on, funding increased for $1.5B Pacific Motorway VL2T project

The Queensland Government has increased its funding of the now $1.5 billion Pacific Motorway Varsity Lakes to Tugun (VL2T) project to upgrade 10 kilometres of the M1 Motorway, as Package B bridge structure works near completion.

The structure works on the bridge at Tallebudgera Creek are nearing completion over the creek and Tallebudgera Creek Road for the new western service road.

The project has already faced lengthy delays and challenges, due to a number of significant weather events and the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and asbestos. These challenges created costly delays, which is why the State Government appointed an additional $500 million in funding for the now $1.5 billion project. The additional funding is also expected to save 300 jobs on the project.

Package A for the project was completed in late 2022 and packages B and C are in construction and expected to open progressively from 2024. The project packages include Package A Varsity Lakes (Exit 85) to Burleigh (Exit 87); Package B Burleigh (Exit 87) to Palm Beach (Nineteenth Avenue); Package C Palm Beach (Nineteenth Avenue) to Tugun (Exit 95).

Related stories:

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the project has pushed on despite challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, subsequent supply chain delays and nationwide cost escalations.

“When complete, VL2T will be a game-changing upgrade for M1 commuters,” he said.

“The corridor program proposed by the Australian Government provides insufficient funds to deliver all the projects included and will require the Queensland Government to determine which to cut and continue.”

The Queensland Government reportedly sought funding at a 50:50 basis ($250 million each) from the Australian Government but was only provided with $70 million in additional funds across the entire M1 corridor.

For more information on the project, click here.