New traffic signals supporting safer and faster traffic flow from Centenary Motorway’s Exit 32 to Springfield Central’s major destinations are now operating as part of Ipswich City Council’s biggest-ever road upgrade.
Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding said the new signals at the Springfield Greenbank Arterial and Main Street intersection – a key avenue to Brighton Homes Arena, Springfield Central Station, Orion shopping centre and University of Southern Queensland – have been commissioned and will tie in with the upgraded off-ramp, where final works are being undertaken.
“Motorists will benefit from four lanes at this incredibly busy intersection, with two left-turning lanes and two through-lanes connecting to a new signalised intersection,” Mayor Harding said.
“This exit leads to one of our city’s fastest-growing areas and a hub for retail, entertainment and education, so we are proud to deliver improved access in partnership with the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR).
“More than 4,000 drivers use Exit 32 each day, while about 20,000 vehicles travel on Springfield Greenbank Arterial daily, so they will be able to reach their destination faster and more safely, whether it be to see our champion Brisbane Lions women’s team in action, get the shopping done at Orion, or attend a lecture at UniSQ.
“This project has seen 1.3 kilometres of road added to the thoroughfare, which will cater for thousands of residents who enjoy the Ipswich lifestyle.”
Council has invested $40 million in the upgrade – the second stage to be completed in the mammoth Springfield Parkway Springfield Greenbank Arterial Project, which has also seen a section of Springfield Parkway increased from two to four lanes.
Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said the investment for the exit ramp and intersection upgrade would provide benefits for decades to come for this growing Ipswich/Springfield population.
“Road safety is a top priority for the Crisafulli Government, and this is a great example of state and local governments working closely to deliver this upgrade for the people of Springfield,” Mr Mickelberg said.
“The upgraded exit ramp and newly signalised intersection will improve traffic flow and safety for all road users.
“With improved reliability in travel times, locals will be able to get home sooner and visitors to the area will have more confidence when it comes to planning their journey.”
Infrastructure, Planning and Assets Committee Chairperson Councillor Andrew Antoniolli said the project will have major flow-on benefits to traffic on the Centenary Motorway.
“A key part of this upgrade is that traffic is electronically monitored to give priority for green lights to drivers exiting the Centenary into Springfield Central during busy times,” Cr Antoniolli said.
“This is a game-changer for Ipswich’s eastern suburbs community and will enable people to spend more time with their loved ones at home, rather than being on the road.
“Council is committed to proactively addressing the local population boom by providing smart transport solutions.”
Deputy Mayor and Division 2 Councillor Nicole Jonic said she was pleased to see the upgrades progressing.
“This project will ensure this community has the road infrastructure we need to be able to drive, ride and walk comfortably and easily across the region,” Cr Jonic said.
“Springfield Central and its surrounding suburbs is a vibrant and family-orientated community, and council is continuing to deliver the infrastructure residents need to enjoy that wonderful lifestyle.”
Division 2 Councillor Paul Tully said the upgrade of Exit 32 showed the benefits of council, State Government and stakeholders working together.
“While Ipswich families are set to benefit, visitors including workers, shoppers and students – as well as footy fans – will enjoy the convenient access to their destination,” Cr Tully said.
Last month, the risk of flooding to the area was reduced with the opening of a huge 3.6m high culvert completed at Opossum Creek as part of Stage 2 of the Springfield Parkway Springfield Greenbank Arterial Duplication project.
Read more about the project on the Ipswich City Council website here.