Townsville Connection Road (Idalia), University Road to Bowen Road Bridge, improve safety

The Townsville Connection Road is being upgraded to dual lanes between University Road and Bowen Road Bridge. The project includes upgrades at 3 intersections: Gartrell Drive, Mervyn Crossman Drive/Fairfield Waters Drive and Kokoda Street.

The section of road carries around 24,000 vehicles daily.

The surrounding area is experiencing residential and commercial growth, and increased traffic is forecast.

Benefits

  • Improves safety
  • Increases capacity
  • Improves network efficiency
  • Increases traffic flow
  • Reduces peak hour congestion
  • Better road access
  • Accessibility
  • Better active transport

Key features

  • Upgrading Townsville Connection Road to 4 lanes between University Road and Bowen Road Bridge.
  • Replacing the roundabout at the Townsville Connection Road and Mervyn Crossman Drive/Fairfield Waters Drive with a signalised intersection.
  • Signalising the Gartrell Drive and Kokoda Street intersections to allow safer side street access.
  • Safety upgrades for pedestrians and bicycle riders, including wider paths, better connections, and safer crossings.

Funding

This project is fully funded by the Queensland Government. Investment ID 1810128

Total investment
$96 million
Queensland Government
$96 million

Current status

Construction started on 4 December 2023 with completion expected in mid-2025, weather and construction conditions permitting. 

Engagement with key stakeholders has been ongoing and will continue throughout the construction phase. 

Project timeline

August 2022: detailed design completed.
December 2022: early works started, including property resumptions and public utility relocations.
December 2023: construction started.
Mid-2025: construction expected to be completed.

Townsville Connection Road (Idalia), University Road to Bowen Road Bridge, improve safety location map

Townsville Connection Road (Idalia), University Road to Bowen Road Bridge, improve safety project map

The Townsville Connection Road is being upgraded to dual lanes between University Road and Bowen Road Bridge.