Work begins on $500m Australian highway upgrade

Work has started on the first phase of a US$500m to upgrade the Warrego Highway in southern Queensland, Australia (pictured). 

Phase one of the project is worth $85m and is being undertaken by Seymour Whyte Constructions. 

Two new lanes will be created in each direction for 5.7km, duplicating the highway between Toowoomba and Oakey. It is due to be completed in 2016.  

Warren Truss, Australia’s deputy prime minister, said: "This section of the highway carries more than 15,000 vehicles a day, which is set to increase to 30,000 over the next 20 years. 

"These upgrades will improve safety on this section of the highway by providing separation between opposing traffic streams, intersection upgrades and new turning lanes to provide safe turning opportunities." 

Australia recently planned a $333m upgrade to its ‘most dangerous road‘.