Expect delays as more slope works begin on Captain Cook Hwy
ROAD WORKS
Motorists should be aware of further possible delays along the Captain Cook Highway with the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) set to begin slope rehabilitation and geotechnical works on two new locations from mid-January.
Work is already underway at Yule Point, in addition to the two new locations at a section of road near Rex Lookout and a section approximately 3km north of Rex Lookout, near Turtle Creek culvert.
The works at Yule Point are expected to be completed in February, while the new works are expected to be completed by late-March, weather permitting.
Transport and Main Roads District Director (Far North) Ross Hodgman said the works will improve safety for road users by reducing the risk of loose rock material falling onto the road surface and mitigating the effects of embankment erosion at these locations.
"PCA Ground Engineering will carry out this project as part of the Department of Transport and Main Roads Maintenance, Preservation and Environment program," said Mr Hodgman.
"The works will involve the removal of large rocks and stabilisation of the roadside area using soil nails and rock nets.
"Crews will be onsite between 6:00 am and 7:00 pm, with single lane operation under coordination of traffic controllers starting from 9:00 am.
"Several intermittent full road closures will be required to carry out scaling, cleaning and removal of large rocks.
“Road users can expect delays of up to 20 minutes during this time and should plan their journey accordingly."
The Rex Lookout will remain open, however some car parks will be unavailable during the works.
"We understand the importance of maintaining access through Captain Cook Highway and we will minimise traffic disruption as much as possible.
“Traffic controllers will monitor queueing lengths, and traffic will be allowed through the work area as soon as it is safe,” said Mr Hodgman.