Townsville City Council has begun a $3.8 million upgrade of Hugh and Gulliver streets, including changes to improve conditions for cyclists.
The project will install around 2.5 kilometres of 2.5-metre-wide shared path along the converged streets, which connect Woolcock Street and Ross River Road and span three suburbs.
Works also include introducing 1.5 metre footpath sections, on-road bike lane line marking, raised crossings at minor intersections and a signalised SMART pedestrian crossing near Wellington Street.
Council will also construct concrete medians, cycle and pedestrian ramps.
The project is intended to support the road's high numbers of riders and pedestrians, who use the road to reach Pimlico State High School, TAFE Townsville and various residential dwellings and shops at the intersection of Hugh and Woolcock streets.
Currently riders must mix with vehicles on road as there are only partially constructed footpaths on the verge and no separate cycle facility. Around 16,000 vehicles travel along Hugh and Gulliver streets daily.
The project will be delivered in four stages:
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Stage One: Palmerston Street to Ross River Road (eastern side)
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Stage Two: Ross River Road to Palmerston Street (western side)
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Stage Three: Palmerston Street to Woolcock Street (western side)
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Stage Four: Woolcock Street to Palmerston Street (eastern side).
Townsville Mayor Nick Dametto said the project was a priority for the council.
"Currently, cyclists mix with motorists on-road as there are only partially constructed footpaths and no dedicated cycle facility – this project will address this congestion and improve overall safety," he said.
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