Toowoomba Regional Council is commencing construction on a significant upgrade to the culvert on Perth Street between Kitchener and Mackenzie Streets, delivering improved flood mitigation, safety and resilience for the local community.
This $4 million project is funded under the Emergency Response Fund’s (ERF) Flood Recovery and Resilience Package, with $3.35 million provided by the Australian Government and $650,000 provided by the Toowoomba Regional Council.
Council Construction and Maintenance portfolio spokesperson, Councillor Carol Taylor said the project would replace the existing ageing culvert with a modern, higher capacity structure designed to better manage flood flows during severe weather events.
“This upgrade complements the previous East Creek flood mitigation works Council has undertaken and is an important investment in the safety and resilience of our local road network,” she said.
“The Perth Street culvert has served the community for many years, but it’s time for a structure with greater capacity that can better handle major weather events and reduce the impacts of creek flooding.
“Once complete, the upgraded culvert will enhance safety, flood immunity and reliability for motorists, pedestrians and nearby residents.”
The project will deliver a range of community benefits, including:
- reducing the number and severity of road flooding events, improving driver safety;
- improving road network accessibility;
- reducing long term damage and maintenance costs;
- enhancing the overall amenity for walkers, bicycle users and the broader community.
Councillor Taylor said construction works would take place on weekdays between 6am and 6pm, with occasional weekend and night works as required.
“To safely complete these works, significant road and footpath closures will be necessary,” she said.
“Detours, traffic controllers and signage will be in place to guide pedestrians and motorists through the changed conditions.
“Road users may experience minor delays during the construction period and are encouraged to plan ahead, allow extra travel time and follow all signage and directions from traffic controllers.
“Council will work to minimise disruption where possible and thanks the community for its patience and cooperation during this important upgrade.”
To support the upgrade, Lake Annand has been temporarily emptied to allow construction to proceed safely. This activity has been carefully completed in line with well-developed environmental management requirements to protect the waterway, local wildlife and surrounding area.
Lake Annand Park will remain open to the public throughout the works. Footpath closures and pedestrian detours will be in place within the park and some areas will be temporarily closed to safely facilitate construction activities.
Construction will begin on Monday 20 April and is expected to be completed by the end of the year, weather and site conditions permitting.
