From today, tens of thousands of vehicles are driving alongside the Brisbane River on a newly constructed road delivered as part of the Kingsford Smith Drive upgrade.
Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the $650 million Kingsford Smith Drive upgrade was almost 80 per cent complete, with the newly constructed traffic lanes now open.
“Kingsford Smith Drive is one of Brisbane’s busiest corridors, carrying on average about 70,000 vehicles every day and this upgrade will get people home quicker and safer with up to 30 per cent travel time savings,” he said.
“This road is a critical link to the Brisbane Airport, the Port of Brisbane and the new international cruise ship terminal along with areas of growth like TradeCoast and State Government’s Northshore Hamilton.
“More than 4000 direct and indirect jobs have been created as part of the Kingsford Smith Drive upgrade which includes widening over the Brisbane River by up to 15 metres, delivering two extra traffic lanes in addition to the dedicated cycling and pedestrian Lores Bonney Riverwalk, which opened in December 2018.”
Cr Schrinner said motorists travelling inbound would see a noticeable change as they would now drive along the newly constructed lanes, which provide amazing views out to the Brisbane River.
“We’re transforming one of Brisbane’s busiest routes into a vibrant urban corridor for both travel and leisure, with the Brisbane River the centrepiece of the new journey, along with interesting historical elements,” he said.
“Throughout these upgrade works Brisbane City Council temporarily removed and preserved a 1928 heritage tram shelter, and this shelter has just been very carefully placed back along the road.
“This shelter provides a great spot to rest along the river, and a new seat will now be constructed out of tram track and installed at the stop in late November.
“This corridor is a vital part of Brisbane’s past and a new heritage trail has been developed as part of the Kingsford Smith Drive upgrade and will open to the public from the end of November.
“This trail will focus on the rich history of the Hamilton area and will be installed between Breakfast Creek and Brett’s Wharf to celebrate Brisbane’s history and reflect on Council’s commitment to protect and bring to life places of historical significance.”
Council will host a community event on November 30 at Brett’s Wharf Plaza to celebrate the opening of the public space, the launch of the new heritage trial and re-opening 24/7 access to Racecourse Rd.
The Kingsford Smith Drive upgrade remains on track to be completed in the second half of 2020.