The facelift of Kilcoy’s main street is now complete with the town’s two main intersections improved and residents making the most of the revitalised road.
Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the completion of works on the D’Aguilar Highway, locally known as William and Mary streets, marked a key milestone for the Kilcoy community.
“The revitalised road through town is a significant improvement on what was previously there and the modified intersections at either end of Mary Street are now fully operational,” Mr Bailey said.
Mr Bailey said the reconfigured intersection at William Street and Mary Street would allow vehicles travelling on the D’Aguilar Highway to pass directly through town without stopping at intersections.
“The result is better traffic flow through the town centre, improved safety for all road users and improved local amenity for residents, businesses and visitors,” Mr Bailey said.
“Additionally, the new cul-de-sac at the Mary Street and Hope Street intersection completed in the first stage of the project has successfully reduced rat-running on residential streets, improving safety for those using the nearby sporting facilities.”
Mr Bailey said the completion of the roadworks was largely due to the strong partnership between Transport and Main Roads and Somerset Regional Council.
“Having council at the coalface of this project as a key stakeholder and the main contractor for the works was a huge benefit, as they were heavily invested to deliver a good outcome for the Kilcoy community,” Mr Bailey said.
Somerset Regional Council Mayor Graeme Lehmann said the Kilcoy roadworks and intersection modification project was the result of many months of planning and coordination.
“We acknowledge the project has resulted in many changes for those commuting through Kilcoy and we want to thank everyone for their input into the final design and for their patience during construction,” Councillor Lehmann said.
Cr Lehmann said the project was an important achievement for Kilcoy.
“We have a greatly improved road, new and improved pedestrian facilities, safer parking arrangements and a revamp of the streetscape and entry statement for one the Somerset regions most iconic towns,” he said.
“Council is committed to working with the Kilcoy community on future beautification works.
“I understand the project had its challenges during design and construction, but we can be proud of the final product.”
The speed limit through Kilcoy and approaching the township has also been reduced, with a new 50 km/h speed limit in place.
In addition, newly marked bike lanes on the main street will make it safer for people wishing to ride to key attractions and businesses in the town centre.
Mr Bailey highlighted the quality of the new road construction, which would reduce the need for regular routine maintenance.
“The rehabilitated road will provide smoother, safer driving conditions for more than 6500 vehicles that use this section of the highway daily,” Mr Bailey said.
“While all road users benefit from this change, it will particularly assist heavy freight and livestock vehicles moving through town.
“I urge all road users to be mindful of the new traffic arrangements.”
Mr Bailey thanked the Kilcoy community, visitors and motorists for their patience and cooperation while this important project was being completed.
