Intersection upgrade taking shape at Geaney Lane

Crews working on the Geaney Lane redevelopment are on track to deliver the project on time and on budget.

The project to upgrade the intersection of Geaney Lane and Deeragun Road at Deeragun started on 3 October.

The works are possible thanks to more than $900,000 funding from the Federal Government’s Black Spot Program.

Townsville City Council Infrastructure Committee Chair, Cr Mark Molachino, said Council crews are transforming the intersection.

“Workers are installing a one-lane roundabout and realigning the pedestrian and cycle path so it is changing the way cars travel through the area,” Cr Molachino said.

“There has been a number of accidents at Geaney Lane and it is my hope that these works will make the intersection significantly safer.

“Black Spot-funded projects have made a big difference at problem intersections nationwide.

“Some completed projects have reduced serious crashes by around 30 per cent at upgraded locations.”

Member for Herbert Phillip Thompson said it was important the Federal Government played a role in increasing road safety.

“We all want people who drive on our roads to leave in the morning and come home safely at night,” Mr Thompson said.

“We’ve seen high road tolls throughout the north and Black Spot funding is put in place to ensure that our loved ones can get home.

“It’s good that the Council, and the Queensland and the Federal Government are all working together, because putting people first is exactly what governments should be doing.”

Cr Molachino said the quick work of the crews has given them time to go beyond the original plans.

“The crew are on track to finish this on time – the project is going so well they have been able to add another 40 metres of footpath within the existing budget,” Cr Molachino said.

“The project has hit every target throughout its construction and we know local residents and businesses are pleased to see the intersection taking shape.”

The intersection is expected to open next week.