Cairns residents have received a major road safety boost with the Federal Government set to invest $535,000 toward two projects under the Black Spot Program.
Federal Leichhardt MP Warren Entsch said the Cairns’ community input had been essential in identifying key road upgrades that will save lives.
He said $370,000 would be invested to upgrade bicycle infrastructure at Cairns roundabouts and $165,000 invested to upgrade the intersection of Gatton and Severin Streets at Parramatta Park.
“These investments will be used to install bicycle awareness zones, review of speed limit approaches, provide on-road-off-road transition and upgrade street lighting at the roundabout,” Mr Entsch said.
“None of these projects would be delivered without the community’s vital input, and I would encourage all residents and motorists in the region to nominate projects for future funding rounds.”
Deputy Prime Minister and Infrastructure and Transport Minister Michael McCormack said reducing fatalities and serious injuries on our roads was a key focus of his role.
“Accidents on our roads cost Australian’s approximately $30 billion per year – let alone the pain borne by families and friends who have lost loved ones,” Mr McCormack said.
“On average, Black Spot projects reduce the number of crashes causing death and injury by 30 per cent, making it one of the most effective road safety measures the Australian Government has at its disposal.
“The Coalition Government has extended the Black Spot Program and is providing $60 million per year from 2021-22 onwards, building on the current $684.5 million investment from 2013-14 to 2020-21.”