Hi-tech upgrade for rest areas

TRUCK drivers can rest easier thanks to new hi-tech intelligent transport safety features being installed at a North Queensland heavy vehicle rest area.

Safety upgrades worth $14.4m have been delivered on the Bruce Highway, south of Ingham

between Grasso’s and Pappin’s roads, including at the Helen’s Hill heavy vehicle rest area.

The upgrades include dedicated left and right-turning lanes from the Bruce Highway, wide centre line treatment, guardrail installation and culvert repairs.

The Helen’s Hill heavy vehicle rest area has been doubled in size to increase parking space.

Intelligent Transport Systems technology has been installed to provide truck drivers with information about parking availability some 5km from the rest area.

The rest area is one of six along the Bruce Highway to have the safety features installed.

The $4.7m in safety upgrades to the Helen’s Hill rest area were funded by the Federal Government under the Black Spots, Rest Areas and Safety Upgrades Package.

The $9.7m for the other rest areas was jointly funded by the federal and state governments on an 80:20 ratio under the Bruce Highway Safety Package.

Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King said road safety was a key priority.

“We are committed to doing everything we can to ensure truck drivers, who spend so much time on the road, are well rested during their long journeys,” Ms King said.

Queensland Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the freight industry was the lifeline that kept Queensland moving.

“Not only is this work making the area safer, it’s also providing truckies peace of mind on their trip by providing realtime parking availability,” Mr Bailey said.

“We are serious about incorporating smart energy solutions, and as part of this project, wind

turbines have been installed to power lighting and CCTV cameras, to improve personal safety at the rest stop.

“There will be some final works continuing in the area, including hydro mulching, signage

installation and other ancillary works to be completed this month.

“New guardrails will be installed over existing culverts in September 2022.”

Queensland Trucking Association CEO Gary Mahon said he was pleased to see priority given to upgrading these heavy vehicle rest areas.

“Efficient and safe journey planning is crucial to managing fatigue and we look forward to more investment in strategically located heavy vehicle rest areas around Queensland,” Mr Mahon said.