More than 9000 people have a smoother journey to school and university each day, thanks to completion of Sunshine Coast Council’s latest upgrade to Sippy Downs Drive.
Mayor Mark Jamieson said the recent $3.2 million upgrade would improve travel in the area now and in the future whenthe Sippy Downs Town Centre is complete.
“The Sippy Downs Town Centre will stimulate the local economy and this upgrade will make it easier for locals – and the growing number of university students – to access the area,” Mayor Jamieson said.
“The new cycle lanes and footpaths will make things more convenient for cyclists and pedestrians, which will hopefully encourage residents to leave their cars at home.
“Delivering infrastructure which facilitates active transport helps Sunshine Coast Council reach our goal of becoming Australia’s most sustainable region.”
Division 6 Councillor Christian Dickson said travel on Sippy Downs Drive was now safer for drivers and pedestrians, including school students.
“Stage 3 of this upgrade has focused on improving a 300m stretch in front of Siena Catholic College,” Cr Dickson said.
“Construction included a new intersection with traffic signals, street lighting, three school bus bays and vastly improved pedestrian and cyclist facilities.
“In addition to providing a safer and easier route for drivers, this upgrade has improved the visual appeal of the area – extensive landscaping and removal of the overhead power lines looks fantastic.
“Council will be looking to make further improvements to Sippy Downs Drive in the future.”
Cr Dickson said Council acknowledged the contributions of its project funding partners.
“Council greatly appreciates the funding from Energex, the State Government and Habitat Developments, a nearby property owner, who have all contributed to this upgrade,” he said.
“Council acknowledges and thanks Siena Catholic College and St Catherine of Siena Catholic Church for their cooperation.
“We also thank drivers for their patience during construction – I’m pleased this project was completed on time.”
**Funding acknowledgements **
The State Government, through the Department of Transport & Main Roads, contributed a cycleway grant of $350,000 to help fund the on and off road cycle lanes that were an integral part of this project.
Energex, through its Community Powerline Enhancement Program, contributed 50% of the cost to underground the power supply.
Habitat Developments, the owner of the property being developed on the northern side of Sippy Downs Drive, funded the traffic signals and the turning lanes into its site.
Siena Catholic College contributed funds for their additional access road and Council is appreciative of their ongoing support.
Fast facts
Stage of the Sippy Downs Drive upgrade project included installation of:
Story by Sunshine Coast Council, Video by View News.