The intersection of Macrossan and Owen Streets in Port Douglas is set to undergo an upgrade.

Narrowing of the intersection for safety, improved traffic flow, new tropical garden beds, and better accessibility are among the upgrades slated.

Durack Civil Pty Ltd was awarded the tender for $358,561.77 during the Ordinary Council Meeting in Mossman on Tuesday.

Construction is set to start before the end of the financial year, during the dry season, which means it will coincide with the traditionally busy tourist season in Port Douglas.

The Council report states Council “had hoped that this project could have been awarded earlier to avoid construction in June/July, however these delays were due to Council budget constraints.”

Councillor Peter McKeown echoed this during the Council meeting, stating, “unfortunately we wanted this to happen earlier, but it needs to be done.

“Hopefully there is as little amount of disruption as possible.”

Macrossan Street will remain open while some pedestrian or traffic diversions will be in place for a section of Owen Street.

Douglas Shire Mayor Michael Kerr said the upgrades would improve safety and visual appeal at the site.

“The intersection has always been a bit awkward at the best of times,” he said.

“Getting this important work done on our famed tourist strip will make it safer for everyone walking or driving in the area.”

Main design features of the upgrade include traffic improvements at Owen Street to prevent illegal u-turns and corner cutting as well as straightening the centreline through the intersection to improve vehicle movement and safety.

Removal of the north western stairs leading to Macrossan Street and replacement with a ramp, improving all abilities access. Narrowing the intersection at Owen Street to provide greater protection to pedestrians and a shorter distance to cross the road while installing a concrete kerb ramp on Macrossan Street to align with the receiving kerb ramp on the opposite side of the street.

And new garden beds with tropical landscaping generally mirroring the existing landscaping on the opposite side of the intersection; and drainage improvements will be made.