Locals and visitors to Bargara can now enjoy a safer, more convenient journey with the Hughes Road and Blain Street intersection officially open.
The major infrastructure upgrade features a new roundabout to support ongoing development and, in particular, an extension of Blain Street further west.
The intersection includes safe and accessible crossings for both pedestrians and cyclists, enhancing connectivity between emerging developments and established neighbourhoods.
While the road closure was in place, Council also upgraded 650 meters of existing road surface by stabilising and laying a new asphalt running layer with fresh line marking.
Mayor Helen Blackburn welcomed the opening and thanked residents and businesses for their patience.
“This roundabout is not just about easing traffic flow, it’s about preparing for the future,” she said.
“We know this area is expanding rapidly and this upgrade ensures that our infrastructure is keeping pace with that growth.
“We’re incredibly grateful to the local businesses and community for their cooperation and understanding throughout the works.”
Roads and Infrastructure (urban) portfolio spokesperson Cr Larine Statham-Blair highlighted the long-term value the project would bring.
“The Hughes Road roundabout will not only improve safety but also make it easier for people to walk, cycle and drive in the area,” she said.
“It will also significantly improve traffic and better connect the growing residential precincts with key local services and businesses.
“While the roadworks were underway, Council took the opportunity to also upgrade sewerage network in preparation for future growth.
“We thank everyone for their patience and commitment during the construction period.”
Bargara Berries owner Debbie Meiers said her business along Hughes Road was impacted by the works but, thanks to consistent and open communication from Council, they were able to stay connected to customers.
“The communication started this time last year, so we knew that there would be interruptions,” she said.
“The ability to allow us to put signs on the road informing the traffic we were open was invaluable.”
Debbie said she was confident the upgrade would deliver long-term benefits.
“We know that this roundabout will increase safety and improve the flow of traffic,” Debbie said.
“Hughes Road is very busy and the new estates will bring new and welcome visitors to our shop.
“We want to thank every customer who has called in and supported us since opening for our season on the 22 April.
“We welcomed the phone calls to help direct traffic to our business.”
The roundabout was identified as part of the Bargara Emerging Communities Infrastructure Planning (ECIP) project, which received the Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia (QNT) Innovation and Sustainability in Water Award and the Stormwater Queensland Excellence in Strategic or Master Planning Award in 2023.
The works were funded by the Australian Federal Government under the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.
When is council going to fix the intersection at the Princess of Wales backpackers East Bundaberg
Now the Hughes Road roundabout is finished it is time to do something with the Bargara Road Hughes Road intersection
roundabout wont make no difference once the place is as full as the now ruined sunshine coast, some people in power are just bent on destroying harmony, yeah sorry for negativity but watching the destruction of a quiet little town over 15 years hurts
Please construct the missing link footpath section between the new roundabout and the Davidson Street footpath along Blain Street.
That really dose look like a fantastic area to put a mall.
I Commend
Bundaberg City Council
For All The Hard Work
They Do In
Bundaberg
Bargara
Surrounding Areas
The New Upgrade
For The New Round About
In Bargara
Impressive
Safety Is Of Most Importance
Thankyou
A Team Effort By All
A Citizen Of Bundaberg