Thursday, December 5, 2024

Central Highfields intersection relocation underway

QLD

The future vision for Central Highfields is a step closer as Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC) prepares to start service relocations associated with the Kratzke and O’Brien Roads Intersection Upgrade Project.

Council is also calling for feedback on the latest concept designs.

TRC Infrastructure Services Committee chair, Councillor Carol Taylor said the works would be a key component of the future town centre of Highfields, as identified in the Central Highfields Master Plan.

Cr Taylor said the service relocation and installation works, that were scheduled to start in late 2023 and continue intermittently in 2024, were required to accommodate new roundabouts, road connections, shared paths and cycleways planned for Central Highfields. The final works schedule will be confirmed when respective asset owners finalise their planning.

“The various asset relocations and installations have been designed to allow for the incorporation of future high-quality landscaping,” Cr Taylor said.

“In addition to the relocation of existing services, Council will take the opportunity to install new water and sewer infrastructure that will serve the growing population and development in Highfields.”

Works will include the relocation or installation of:
• Telecommunication assets owned by Telstra, NBN and Optus,
• Overhead power (high voltage and low voltage) that will be relocated underground,
• Existing water services,
• New sewer infrastructure, and
• New trunk water main infrastructure.

The areas affected by the relocation works will include:
• Highfields Road: from 180 metres east of the intersection with Kratzke Road to the Rogers Drive intersection,
• O’Brien Road: from Highfields Road to the recently completed roundabout next to the Highfields Library, and
• Kratzke Road: near the intersection with Highfields Road.

Cr Taylor said while much of the work would be undertaken off the roadway, with minimal effects on the community, there would be times where lane closures would be required.

“Council will ensure traffic management is implemented where appropriate to keep construction workers, road users, pedestrians and cyclists safe. This will also ensure we maintain access at Highfields for general traffic and to surrounding businesses and schools,” she said.

“I encourage residents to view the flythrough video of the Kratzke and O’Brien Roads Intersection Upgrade Project, which has reached the 50% design stage.

“The landscaping features are indicative and could be changed in the final designs to accommodate infrastructure and design requirements.”

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