SOMERSET Regional Council is calling on the State Government to invest $84 million over the next four years to fix the notorious Brisbane Valley Highway.

Somerset Mayor Jason Wendt said the Somerset community needs a State Government who will listen and act on the concerns of regional communities.

Late last month Council launched its 2024 State Government Advocacy Plan, ahead of the October elections, calling on the State Government to address six key challenges impacting the Somerset region.

Fixing the Brisbane Valley Highway topped the list.

Cr Wendt said Council and the community have waited far too long for proper action to fix the highway.

“Somerset is economically dependent on the Brisbane Valley Highway, a majority one-star safety-rated road that carries up to 11,000 vehicles per day,” he said.

“The State’s current spending of $20M on the Brisbane Valley Highway will not fix this road.

“The condition of this highway is deplorable.

“This highway is the main artery into Somerset and improvements are crucial in supporting economic development.”

Cr Wendt said council had engaged independent consultants on a few council strategies and in many instances the state of the Brisbane Valley Highway is listed as an impediment to growth.

“It’s embarrassing. Quite frankly, we all know how terrible that highway is but we’re all just waiting around for a State Government to commit serious dollars to making it safer,” he said.

“We don’t need anymore patch jobs. We need proper investment from the State and a long-term sustainable upgrade to the Brisbane Valley Highway.

“That’s exactly why we are seeking $84 million over the next four years to enhance road safety, improve the surfacing and pavement, and improve the freight and transport links across Somerset, South Burnett, Darling Downs and the Warrego Highway. 

“We’re also seeking support from all levels of government to release a portion of the SEQ City Deal funding to develop a long-term plan to upgrade of the Brisbane Valley Highway.”

Cr Wendt said Somerset needs a State Government who will invest in the region.

“We need a State Government who will commit to making changes for a stronger future that prioritises our community,” he said.

“It’s time the State Government listened.”

To find out more about the State Government Election Advocacy Roadmap Plan 2024 visit somerset.qld.gov.au/advocacy