Back to Basics upgrade targets one of Townsville’s busiest roads

Safer, smoother journeys are in sight, with work resuming on a major upgrade to Hugh and Gulliver streets – one of Townsville’s busiest corridors.

Phase 2 of the Gulliver and Hugh Streets Active Transport Facilities Upgrade is a jointly funded, $3.8 million project, made possible by $3.04 million in funding from the Australian Government’s Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program alongside $760,000 from Council.

Phase 1, completed in February, was fully funded by Council to the tune of $1.02 million.

Crews will deliver 2.5km of concrete pathway along the corridor connecting Woolcock Street and Ross River Road, making it easier to walk and ride in a bustling section of the city.

These works will include on-road bike lanes, raised crossings at minor intersections and a signalised SMART pedestrian crossing near Wellington Street.

Sections of driveways and crossovers, along with associated kerb and channel and concrete medians, will be upgraded, with new cycle and pedestrian ramps also installed.

Mayor Nick Dametto said the major infrastructure project ticked all the boxes of Council’s renewed Back to Basics focus.

“Back to Basics isn’t just a catchphrase – it’s the mantra behind the decisions Council is making daily to ensure the essential infrastructure our community relies on is fit for a growing city,” Cr Dametto said.

“Every day, almost 16,000 cars travel along Hugh and Gulliver streets, which connect the major arterial routes of Woolcock Street and Ross River Road.

“This busy stretch experiences high pedestrian and cyclist numbers, particularly during morning and afternoon peaks as students from Pimlico State High School and TAFE Townsville travel to and from their classes.

“The corridor also includes a mix of high‑density residential properties and commercial premises that increase traffic demand in the area.

“Currently, cyclists are often forced to mix with motorists – this project will address this issue, reduce congestion and improve safety for everyone using the corridor whilst helping to protect the liveability of our great city.”

Cr Dametto said crews would aim to complete the bulk of construction before the Christmas period to help avoid wet weather delays, with THE remaining elements scheduled for completion in the months following.

For project updates and to view the map, including tree removal locations, visit the Gulliver and Hugh Streets Active Transport Facilities Upgrade project page.