Locals welcome start on key intersection upgrade
A BUSINESS owner says the multimillion-dollar upgrade of a dangerous intersection at Redlynch will help save lives and attract more visitors after construction is completed early next year.
Cairns Regional Council yesterday started the redevelopment of the intersection at the corner of Redlynch Intake and Kamerunga roads, outside the Red Beret Hotel. Green spaces, a stone feature wall, and new timber decking will be part of the $2.4 million upgrades that will address road safety concerns for motorists, pedestrians and cyclists.
There will also be solarpowered speed check signs, additional lighting and a new pedestrian crossing on Kamerunga Rd.
A 30km/h speed limit will be in place, once all works are expected to be completed by February 2020.
Redlynch Real Estate principal David Jeffries said the upgrade had been a long time coming.
“For this particular area, it’s going to slow the traffic down,” he said. “I’ve been sitting here for many, many years, watching cars speed around the corner and narrowly missing kids on bikes, and all sorts of stuff.
“It will make it safer for pedestrians, cars – everybody.” He said the beautification works would make the area more attractive for visitors.
Division 6 Councillor Linda Cooper said preserving the character of the precinct was an important consideration when planning the intersection upgrade.
“This was a case of council listening to ratepayers and delivering infrastructure they will be proud to have,” she said.