Extensive damage caused by last week’s heavy rainfall has closed both directions of Mackay-Eungella Road on Eungella Range.
The closure is expected until early next month (February) to ensure safety during the removal of debris, geotechnical investigations and emergency repairs are undertaken.
Access is restricted to emergency services vehicles only. For four-wheel drives and high clearance vehicles, an alternate, western detour route between Eungella and Mackay is available via Turrawulla Road and Lizzie Road.
Transport and Main Roads’ acting regional director for Central Queensland, Stephen Price, says safety is a top priority and road crews are working around the clock to reopen the road as soon as possible.
“The initial clean-up and geotechnical investigations will be undertaken as soon as possible so we can assess what repairs will be needed,” Mr Price says.
“Closing the road for the interim will ensure the safety of workers and road users and that repairs can be expedited.
“This will ultimately reduce the impact of closures on the community.”
The road is expected to reopen under limited access restrictions from early February while long-term repairs continue.
“Safety of road users is our priority and we thank the local community for its patience during this closure and across the entire network where there are temporary changed traffic conditions,” Mr Price says.
“We continue to urge all motorists to drive to the conditions right across the Mackay Whitsunday district and obey all signs, which are there for their safety.”
For up-to-date information on road conditions, call 13 19 40, visit www.qldtraffic.qld.gov.au or download the QLDTraffic app.