Australian Government awards AUS$1.1 million ITS maintenance contract

The Australian Government has awarded a joint federal- and state-funded maintenance contract worth AUS$1.1 million (US$1 million) for work on the ITS infrastructure on North Coast roads. Federal Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Anthony Albanese, and Main Roads Minister, Craig Wallace, announced that RoadTek Traffic Services will carry out the work for the current financial year. RoadTek is the commercial construction arm of the Department of Transport and Main Roads Queensland.

The ministers say the funding will enable RoadTek to complete routine electrical maintenance on sections of the Bruce Highway and other roads in the region. “The Federal Government is providing Queensland with nearly AUS$100 million (US$93 million) in 2009 and 2010 for maintenance works,” Albanese says. “This funding further demonstrates the Australian Government’s commitment to maintaining road conditions right across the Queensland network. The work carried out by RoadTek will ensure the ongoing effective operation of ITS and other electrical infrastructure on North Coast roads, including sections of the Bruce Highway. Maintenance of ITS equipment will include routine electrical checks of traffic signals at 234 intersections, more than 2,500 streetlights, eight car park guidance signs, 51 Help phones, 86 CCTV cameras and 13 variable message signs.”

Left: Main Roads Minister, Craig Wallace

Wallace says the maintenance program would maintain the state-controlled network in a safe condition for motorists. “The department uses ITS equipment to monitor the road network and provide motorists with important information on road conditions and potential hazards. Variable message signs are often used to provide motorists with advance warning of crashes, roadworks, heavy congestion, or other messages of community benefit. They can use this information to make better choices about things such as travel routes and times.”

Wallace adds that as part of the contract maintenance will be carried out on state-controlled roads in the local government areas of Sunshine Coast, Moreton Bay and Somerset. “RoadTek has the right expertise to keep all electrical components in tip-top condition to provide better roads and a higher level of road safety for Queenslanders.
 

20 October 2009