Delays expected as Oak Beach highway work extends
Slope Stabilisation
With the new school year imminent and more people in Douglas returning to work in Cairns, the region’s motorists and road users are preparing themselves for another two or three weeks of possible delays on the Captain Cook Highway near Oak Beach.
During slope and rock stabilisation work conducted just before Christmas, contractors found there was further work needed.
The Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) scheduled the extended scope of the project, which started yesterday (Monday).
The additional work will be conducted through until early February, weather and construction conditions permitting.
“The additional slope stabilisation works on Captain Cook Highway, south of Oak Beach, are progressing well despite recent wet weather,” a TMR spokesperson told Newsport.
The TMR said there will be “changed traffic conditions while the works are carried out,” meaning temporary speed limit reductions will be in place and single lane operation under coordination of traffic controllers.
Crews will be onsite Mondays to Saturdays between 6 am and 6 pm.
“Several intermittent, full closures will be required at times after 9am to carry out drilling, vegetation removal, and to move machinery,” the spokesperson said.
“Road users should expect delays of up to 20 minutes during this time and should plan their journey accordingly. The contractor will monitor queuing lengths and allow traffic through as soon as it is safe.”
The project’s purpose is to improve safety for road users by reinforcing the slopes, reducing the risk of rocks falling onto the road surface, and mitigating the effects of embankment erosion at the location.
The works will involve removing rocks and debris, rock bolting, and installation of netting.
Variable Message Signs (VMS) are in place on the approaches to the work site to ensure motorists are aware of the changed traffic conditions. Changes in dates due to poor weather will be posted on the VMS.
The project is expected to be completed by early February 2023, weather and construction conditions permitting.
If you require further information about these works, please contact the department by telephone on 4045 7144 or via email to [email protected].
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