Future flooding along Springfield Parkway will be better managed with the installation of a 3.6 metre high culvert at Opossum Creek, as part of Stage 2 works on the major Springfield Parkway Springfield Greenbank Arterial Duplication project.
Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding said the triple cell culvert had been installed as Stage 2 of the project continues early works, with construction on lane duplications from two to four lanes expected to start next year.
“The three cells of this 3.6 metre behemoth, including the base slab, head and wing walls, required more than 160 cubic metres of concrete and 20 tonnes of steel,” Mayor Harding said.
“This giant culvert will improve stormwater management, diverting thousands of litres of water away from Springfield Parkway during rain and storms.
“It’s exciting to see big steps forward in the progress of Stage 2 of council’s biggest road upgrade project, with this stage set to duplicate Springfield Parkway from the Springfield Greenbank Arterial intersection to Topaz Road.
“This project is ensuring the Springfield region is futureproofed against thousands more residents moving in, attracted by our affordable housing and lifestyle.”
Infrastructure, Planning and Assets Committee Chairperson Councillor Andrew Antoniolli said the massive culvert was completed just in time for storm season.
“This year’s storm season has begun, and this culvert will have immediate positive impacts for stormwater management, helping to prevent bank scouring and minimising the impact of high-volume flows on the surrounding environment,” Cr Antoniolli said.
“Council is now focused on finalising major stormwater upgrades and progressing service relocations, including Energex, Urban Utilities, gas and communication lines, before duplication works begin in earnest.”
Deputy Mayor and Division 2 Councillor Nicole Jonic said the culvert, while not easily noticed by the thousands of motorists driving down Springfield Parkway each day, was a significant piece of engineering.
“The scale of this new culvert just reinforces the overall scale of the Springfield Parkway Springfield Greenbank Arterial upgrade, being delivered over three stages,” Deputy Mayor Jonic said.
“I’m looking forward to Stage 2 being completed overall, and glad to see our roads being future proofed against major flood events.”
Division 2 Councillor Paul Tully said the major road upgrade was progressing well, demonstrating council’s commitment to delivering the infrastructure Ipswich’s growing community needs.
“Springfield Parkway and Springfield Greenbank Arterial are council’s biggest road upgrade, duplicating both roads to four lanes,” Cr Tully said.
“With up to 25,000 motorists, pedestrians and cyclists travelling through these two roads daily, and more residents moving in every day, this is a critical project to ensure we are fully prepared for the future.”