Queensland’s transport department is preparing plans for a US$474M highway that includes three parallel 735m long tunnels through the Toowoomba mountains in northern Australia.
Preliminary proposals call for twin tunnels of about 16m diameter, each with a dual two-lane carriageway separated by a central service tunnel of about 10m diameter that will be used by emergency services in case of accidents. The tunnels form part of a highway running between Helidon and Charleton.
Detailed design is expected to start next year following by extensive site investigation and the invitation of tenders. Construction should start by 2007 or 2008 for completion by 2011.
The state government has just finalised the highway route. It is expected to be financed by the state, via the AusLink transport initiative and the private sector.
