Work to streamline the entry to Townsville Airport and reduce congestion on surrounding residential streets is beginning, following the awarding of the $2.9 million contract to a local construction company.

The work is getting underway following an extensive tender process, resulting in Townsville-based Shamrock Civil being selected to deliver the Meenan Street project.

The project involves the extension of Meenan Street to meet John Melton Black Drive, which will become the main entry and exit point to the airport – significantly improving traffic flow in the area.

Landscaping and planting of large trees will be carried out along the road, providing an attractive avenue to welcome passengers to the airport.

Drainage works will also be undertaken, improving the existing run-off capability of the land directly behind homes backing onto the Meenan Street reserve.

Townsville Airport Chief Operating Officer Kevin Gill said the new entryway was an important element in the overall plans for the airport redevelopment.

“By joining Meenan Street with John Melton Black Drive, airport users will have a more direct,appropriate and attractive entry into Townsville Airport, providing a significant improvement for vehicles seeking to access the airport,” he said.

“This will also result in less interaction between pedestrians and vehicles around the terminal, creating a safer environment for all road users.”

Works are expected to be delivered from mid-October to late May 2020. Residents in the surrounding area have been contacted and will be updated about any potential impact during the construction. Work will be scheduled to minimise disruption.

When the project is complete, entry to the airport via Halifax Street will be blocked with the erection of an automatic gate system, with the road only open to residents and emergency services thereafter.

Funding for the project is being delivered by Townsville Airport and through the Australian Government’s Building Better Region’s fund, which Townsville City Council applied for.

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