Month: July 2025

Source: NGARKAT HIGHWAY, NGARKAT (Grass Fire)

Families in the Sutherland Shire, in Sydney’s south, have a new recreation destination with the completion of the Waratah Park Playground. 

The new all-abilities playground features play space equipment, accessible pathways, picnic shelters, seating, lighting, and CCTV, enhancing safety and liveability for local residents.

An accessible amenities building has also been included for children and their carers. 

Located right next to the Sutherland Leisure Centre, it’s the latest part of the local sports precinct and recreation reserve. 

The project was made possible by $1.2 million from the Australian Government and more than $929,000 from the Sutherland Shire Council.

 It’s one of several projects across NSW receiving a total of $12 million from the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program (LRCI).

Council undertook extensive community consultation to inform the design of the park, with works beginning in April and completed in June this year. 

Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, the Hon Kristy McBain MP:

“The Waratah Park Playground is a fantastic new facility for families.

“The Albanese Government continues to partner with local governments like Sutherland Shire to get high-priority community projects off the ground.

“We are delivering the infrastructure our communities deserve.”

Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Hughes, David Moncrieff MP:

“The Australian Government has delivered another fantastic facility for families in southern Sydney – one that reflects the unique history of our area, and which will provide benefits for our children and the next generation in the years to come.

“The Sutherland community has advocated for increased access to playgrounds in this area.

“I am so excited that we have been able to deliver Waratah Park Playground.”

Quotes attributable to Sutherland Shire Mayor, Cr Jack Boyd:

“I’m proud to deliver a facility in partnership with the Australian Government that embodies inclusivity and enhances recreational opportunities for young families. 

“This playground is more than just a place to play; it’s a space where children of all abilities can come together, learn, and have fun.

“We are committed to creating high quality, inclusive spaces that reflect the diverse needs of our growing community, and Waratah Park playground is a shining example of that.

“This is the second regional all-abilities playground to be delivered in Sutherland Shire, following the opening of Cooper Street Reserve playground last year.

“This approach has been incredibly well received by the community and ensures that every child can experience the simple joy of playing outdoors.

“Sutherland Shire Council thanks the Australian Government for its support in bringing this brand new regional all-abilities playground to life.”

Source: NGARKAT HIGHWAY, NGARKAT (Grass Fire)

Work crews and equipment have started arriving on site as works begin on the Youngs Crossing upgrade; a project which will significantly enhance the reliability of this key transport connection in the City of Moreton Bay.  

The upgrade will include the construction of a new four-lane bridge west of the existing Youngs Crossing bridge, as well as three new signalised intersections and improved pedestrian and active transport connections. 

For generations, heavy rain events and water flows into the North Pine River and Sideling Creek have led to the closure of Youngs Crossing Road, causing delays and congestion on surrounding roads.

The road is used by more than 20,000 vehicles a day and since 2021 the crossing has been closed for an average of 12 days a year. This year, the road has already been closed for a total of 14 days.

Works will now begin on the $86 million program of works to be delivered by Seymour Whyte.

With construction beginning this month, the project is expected to be completed in mid-2027, weather permitting.   

As work gets underway residents and road users are encouraged to register for project updates. For the latest on the project, visit www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au/youngs-crossing and register via the ’Stay Connected’ link.  

Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:

“Each and every flood event at this crossing impacts both residents and businesses – sometimes for days on end.  

“With Moreton Bay experiencing rapid growth, this project will deliver much-needed flood immunity and cater for increasing volumes of traffic on this stretch of road. 

“The Australian Government is working in partnership with the Queensland Government and the City of Moreton Bay to deliver this crucial upgrade.”  

Quotes attributable to Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg:

“We’re committed to delivering the vital transport infrastructure communities across our state need to ensure safety, reliability, and connectivity.

“Part of the upgrade includes improvements to the Dayboro Road intersection, which includes boosting its turning capacities and the inclusion of additional lanes, new cyclist and pedestrian facilities and safety improvements.” 

Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Dickson Ali France:

“I know just how much sudden road closures due to rain impact our community. 

“This significant road update will help people in Dickson get home faster, so they can spend more time with their families and less time on the road. This project will be felt for generations to come.  

“In 2024 the Albanese Government announced it would commit an additional $18.9 million towards the project, bringing our total commitment to $51.6 million and demonstrating our support for this critical project.”

Quotes attributable to City of Moreton Bay Mayor Peter Flannery: 

“It is an historic day, with the countdown to the 2027 opening of the new-four lane bridge and road officially underway. This is what happens when all levels of Government work together for their communities.

“The site will become a hive of activity over the coming weeks as crews from our principal contractor, Seymour Whyte Constructions, work towards delivering this important flood-immune river crossing for City of Moreton Bay and its communities.

“This highly anticipated upgrade is one of the most extensive road infrastructure projects to be delivered by Council, with other improvements including new pedestrian, cycling and safety features. 

“I’m pleased that our Council has been able to pull this project out of the ‘too hard basket’ where it has been stuck for decades.” 

Source:

Ground has broken on the Mooloolaba Central Meeting Place, as part of the Mooloolaba Foreshore Stage Two works.

The upgrades will introduce more shaded areas, all-ability beachfront access, and a new viewing deck to take in the beauty of the Mooloolaba Beach and are jointly funded with $6.66 million from the Albanese Government, $6.66 million from the Queensland Government and more than $7.11 million from the Sunshine Coast Council

The Sunshine Coast Council engaged actively with the local community in 2022, proposing detailed designs, taking on board suggestions, and putting forward the community’s preferred option for the foreshore in January 2023. 

Fast-forward to today, and the community’s dreams are becoming reality with first works starting ahead of a much-anticipated completion in 2027.

When finished, the foreshore will include improved beachfront parkland, lighting, new modern amenities, event spaces, public artwork and broader accessible pathways. 

The Central Meeting Place is one of the successful local infrastructure projects that aim to boost community lifestyle across Queensland’s south-east corner through the $285.8 million SEQ Liveability Fund.

As part of the Mooloolaba Foreshore Revitalisation Project a new seawall will also be constructed which will add terraced seating and improved connections to the beach while protecting it from erosion. 

The new seawall is funded with $7.95 million from the Albanese Government’s Disaster Ready Fund, and will ensure the foreshore is built to withstand future weather extremes.

This investment is in addition to the $6.66 million for the Mooloolaba Central Meeting Place project, taking the total Albanese Government investment to the Mooloolaba Foreshore to $14.61 million. 

The community can follow the Mooloolaba Foreshore Revitalisation Project on the Sunshine Coast Council’s website.

Quotes attributable to Acting Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Julie Collins:

“Mooloolaba locals are here for the iconic Queensland lifestyle. 

“They want to live close to the beautiful beaches and nature that this corner of the sunshine state is known for. 

“The Mooloolaba Central Meeting Place will make their region better equipped and more accessible than ever.” 

Quotes attributable to Federal Emergency Management Minister Kristy McBain:

“This funding will help protect homes, businesses and our iconic beachfront from the impacts of severe weather and rising seas, while creating a safer, more welcoming space for families and visitors to gather year-round.

“Upgrading the seawall and revitalising the foreshore means locals, surf clubs and small businesses can keep sharing everything we love about Mooloolaba with the rest of Australia and the world.

“Our Government is committed to working side by side with state and local partners to deliver resilient, future-ready infrastructure that keeps coastal communities strong and connected.”

Quotes attributable to Queensland Senator Corinne Mulholland:

“Already boasting a stunning beach, and esplanade packed with accommodation, bars and restaurants, the foreshore upgrades will see Mooloolaba remain a premier destination for locals and tourists alike. 

“Creating new shared spaces, delivering 6,500m² of beachfront parklands and protecting the foreshore for the future with a new seawall, this work will unlock significant benefits for the community. I’m proud that our Government is investing $14.61 million to make this a reality for Mooloolaba.”  

Quotes attributable to Sunshine Coast Council Environment and Liveability Councillor Tim Burns:

“This stage is a significant step in creating a world-class beachfront destination being delivered in partnership with the Federal and State governments and carried out by leading contractor SEE Group. 

“Our accommodation providers, local cafés and restaurants, boutiques and tourism operators are open and ready to welcome you.

“Your support during this time will help ensure they continue to thrive alongside the revitalised foreshore.”

Source:

Local surfers and tourists have a new surfing site in Albany with the Southern Ocean Surf Reef officially opened today.

The artificial reef offers an accessible surfing site offshore from Middleton Beach at Albany.

The reef will create a more consistent quality, surfable wave for surfers with beginner to intermediate abilities, along with advanced surfers on larger swells.

The Albanese Government contributed $5 million and the Cook Government $4.75 million towards the build, delivered by the City of Albany and managed by project contractor Heron Construction Limited.

The project also secured financial support from local funding sources.

Specialist marine equipment was required for the complex build with local quarried rocks used on the seabed floor of the artificial reef location.

The design provides surfing rides of up to 100 metres during average conditions, with surfable waves expected for more than 40 per cent of the year over the reef, with further surfing opportunities inshore of the reef.

Quotes attributable to Federal Acting Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Julie Collins:

“Middleton Beach is a much-loved destination for both locals and tourists and this new artificial surf reef is an exciting addition.

“This project will cater to surfers of all levels by creating safer and more consistent surf conditions, unlike some of the more challenging breaks in the area. It’s a terrific project and our government is very proud to have supported it.”

Quotes attributable to WA Regional Development Minister Stephen Dawson:

“Congratulations to the City of Albany, the Albany Boardriders, and Surfing WA, which have helped make a vision for an accessible surfing site close to town a reality.

“The Southern Ocean Surf Reef is set to become a significant recreational and tourism asset for the Great Southern.

“The Cook Government is committed to supporting vibrant communities across regional WA.”

Quotes attributable to WA Acting Great Southern and Tourism Minister Don Punch:

“The Southern Ocean Surf Reef project will add yet another outdoor attraction for visitors to the diverse Great Southern.

“The reef has quickly become popular with a wide range of users, from school groups and beginner surfers to experienced riders enjoying larger swells.

“Community feedback has been very positive, with local surfers praising the increase in waves and quality both on the reef and close to shore.”

Quotes attributable to WA Senator Varun Ghosh:

“This recreational infrastructure will help to nurture Albany’s surfing community and contribute to local health and wellbeing.

“Year-round access to a high-quality swell opens the door for Albany to become a popular destination for surfing competitions and events.  

“Surfers in Albany can now do what they love without needing to travel out of town to unpatrolled and isolated beaches.”

Source:

Australia and China continue to strengthen cultural links with a historic exchange between our national museums.

A Memorandum of Understanding will see the National Museum of Australia’s critically acclaimed exhibition Songlines: Tracking the Seven Sisters travel to the National Museum of China from November 2026. 

Meanwhile, the National Museum of Australia will welcome the Terracotta Warriors exhibition on loan from the Shaanxi Cultural Heritage Promotion Centre from December 2026. 

The exchange was welcomed by the Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Chinese Premier Li Qiang during the Australia-China Annual Leaders’ Meeting in Beijing.

It further demonstrates commitment on both sides to continued collaboration across our arts and cultural sectors as enshrined in the 15th Implementation Program for Cultural Exchanges, a joint outcome of the Australia-China Annual Leaders’ Meeting in June 2024.

Songlines is led by an Indigenous Community Curatorium and details an ancient First Nations creation saga across the APY (Aṉangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara) lands of the central deserts, the Ngaanyatjarra lands in western Australia and the Martu lands in north-west Australia.

The Terracotta Warriors were created more than 2,000 years ago and their discovery is marked as one of the greatest archaeological events of the 20th century.  

Minister for the Arts, Tony Burke, said the exchange reflected a shared commitment to strengthening ties and understanding between the two nations.

“This exchange will provide Australian audiences with a rare opportunity to glimpse into a fascinating period of Chinese history.

“Likewise, Chinese audiences can look forward to gaining a deeper understanding of First Nations people’s rich history and culture.

“Cultural exchanges are an important way to build mutual understanding and appreciation, and this agreement will serve to reinforce the important links between our countries, communities and cultural institutions.”

National Museum of Australia director, Katherine McMahon, thanked both the National Museum of China and the Shaanxi Cultural Heritage Promotion Centre, for their collaboration on the cultural exchange.

“This historic exhibition exchange is the result of more than a decade of ongoing work in China by the National Museum of Australia.

“We are so proud to take Songlines to Beijing to introduce this epic First Nations creation saga to Chinese audiences, while Australians will be enthralled by archaeological treasures when Terracotta Warriors opens in Canberra.”

Source: Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority

The Beaudesert community (west of the Gold Coast) is benefitting from major town centre upgrades and vital infrastructure improvements delivering safer streets and greener public spaces.

The Albanese and Crisafulli governments have partnered with the Scenic Rim Council to fund these upgrades with around $22.4 million of total support.

Beaudesert Town Centre Revitalisation

The Town Centre Revitalisation has delivered a new community space featuring an amphitheatre, open parklands, public toilet facilities, off-street carparks, and large parking bays for caravans, buses and trailers.

It was jointly funded by more than $4.19 million from the Australian Government, $3.75 million from the Queensland Government and more than $6.43 million from Scenic Rim Regional Council.

New stormwater infrastructure on Brisbane and Eaglesfield streets

New stormwater infrastructure has been delivered on Brisbane and Eaglesfield streets from William Street to Selwyn Street.

This will improve flood resilience for town centre businesses and increase safety for pedestrians and vehicles during and following weather events, as well as enabling activity to resume more quickly.

It was supported by more than $2.17 million from the Australian Government under the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) Program and nearly $1.26 million from Scenic Rim Regional Council.

Brisbane and Selwyn Street roundabout

The new Brisbane and Selwyn Street roundabout is complete, increasing pedestrian safety with street upgrades and traffic calming devices.

The project upgraded parkland facilities, transport and stormwater infrastructure, as well as landscaping and footpaths.

Works were funded with more than $660,000 from the Queensland Government and nearly $3.94 million from Scenic Rim Regional Council.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, the Hon Kristy McBain MP:

“These upgrades mark significant investments in Beaudesert’s main street and will be a massive boost for the Scenic Rim region.

“I’m especially looking forward to seeing locals enjoy the fantastic new town centre facilities.

“It’s another great example of how we are partnering across all levels of government to deliver communities the infrastructure they need and deserve.”

Quotes attributable to Senator for Queensland Corinne Mulholland:

“The Albanese Government is committed to funding projects that make a real difference in local liveability, and this impressive town centre revitalisation will be enjoyed for generations to come.

“Our investment not only provides an immediate stimulus for the local economy and jobs, it also invests in the pride locals feel about the aesthetic and amenities in this beautiful town.

“Mayor Sharp toured me around the Scenic Rim earlier this month and it was clear the council is successfully delivering on its commitment to a back-to-basics focus on the services and infrastructure ratepayers expect, while also keeping a forward-looking focus on how to keep this beautiful region moving forward.”

Quotes attributable to Qld Minister for Local Government, Ann Leahy: 

“The Crisafulli Government is committed to delivering the infrastructure to support growing communities.

“These upgrades in the Scenic Rim are a great example of what can be achieved when all three levels of government work together with the shared goal to deliver for local communities.”

Quotes attributable to Mayor of Scenic Rim Regional Council, Tom Sharp:

“The upgrades have redefined Beaudesert’s role as a vibrant and thriving centre for the Scenic Rim community.

“These projects reflect years of planning and community input, resulting in safer streets, greener spaces, better parking, and a town centre that truly reflects who we are.”

Source: Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority

Hong Kong Airlines is set to touchdown at Tullamarine, becoming the 41^st carrier to land at Victoria’s gateway airport.

From December, the airline will run three services a week between Melbourne and Hong Kong, offering passengers onward connections across Asia and Europe.

This follows the expansion to the Australian-Hong Kong bilateral air services arrangements in October 2024, allowing for an additional 14 passenger services per week. 

Hong Kong Airlines’ entry into the Victorian market accompanies the Australian Government approval of a major development plan for a third runway at Melbourne Airport in September 2024. 

The third runway will help cater for Victoria’s growing demand for freight and passenger services, driving economic growth for years to come.

With passenger numbers continuing to grow, the Australian Government has also increased its investment in the future Melbourne Airport Rail Link. 

Planning work is underway, with new steering committee chair Merren McArthur working with the Airport, State and Federal Governments to progress the project. 

Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King: 

Tullamarine isn’t just Melbourne’s airport, it’s our state’s key link to the world.

These additional flights to Hong Kong will mean more connections from Melbourne to Manila, Ballarat to Berlin and regional Vic to Reykjavik.  

Tullamarine has room to grow and we have approved Melbourne Airport’s plan to construct a third runway so we can accommodate more flights in and out. 

We’re also investing $7 billion in the Melbourne Airport Rail Link, so passengers can easily travel from the airport to Melbourne’s CBD, Geelong, Ballarat, Bendigo or anywhere on our rail network. 

This is an important investment in Melbourne’s airport that will keep Victoria better connected for years to come. 

Source: Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority

The Albanese Government has refreshed the membership of the Northern Australia Indigenous Reference Group (IRG), which is a key advisory body on boosting economic and social prosperity for First Nations people across the north.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor of James Cook University, Professor Martin Nakata, has been appointed the new IRG chair. Professor Nakata has more than 30 years of experience in Indigenous education, research and community engagement.

Other new appointments are:

• Mr Damien Djerrkura (NT), CEO of the North East Arnhem Land Aboriginal Corporation
• Ms Alinta McGuire (NT), Director of Impact & Innovation at Impact North

They will serve on the IRG alongside returning members:

• Mr Troy Fraser (Qld), CEO of Doomadgee Aboriginal Corporation
• Ms Nini Mills (WA), CEO of Nyamba Buru Yawuru
• Ms Flora Warrior (Qld), Principal Consultant of Saltwater Blue Consultancy Services

The IRG reports directly to the Minister for Northern Australia Madeleine King and Minister for Indigenous Australians Senator Malarndirri McCarthy and provides practical advice to support the Government’s refreshed northern Australia agenda.

Minister King said she looked forward to working with the new IRG to help achieve tangible outcomes for First Nations Australians. 

“The IRG is crucial to delivering on our commitments to closing the gap, as well as the Northern Australia Action Plan,” Minister King said.

“The IRG brings together a diverse group of skilled professionals from across the north with expertise in higher education, health, finance, economic community development, banking, mining, training and development, agriculture and the not-for-profit sectors.”

Minister McCarthy said the IRG is part of the Albanese Government’s commitment to First Nations economic empowerment, in partnership with First Nations people and communities.

“The Northern Australia Indigenous Reference Group provides practical knowledge and advice to build the economic wellbeing of First Nations Australians, reflecting the ambitions and priorities of our communities,” Minister McCarthy said.

“I look forward to working with the Northern Australia Indigenous Reference Group to strengthen the economic and social prosperity of First Nations people in northern Australia.”

The Albanese Government thanks departing chair Mr Colin Saltmere, and outgoing members Mr Peter Jeffries, Ms Gillian Mailman, Mr Jerome Cubillo and Ms Tara Craigie and thanks them for their contribution. 

Source: Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority

Several key milestones have been reached at the Lumsden Point project in the Port of Port Hedland in Western Australia’s Pilbara region.

Pilbara Ports has completed the causeway that will connect two new wharfs to an extensive logistics hub.

This one kilometre long causeway incorporates a 12 metre wide road and pipeline and logistics corridors.

A further four agreements have been signed, which will allocate reclaimed land within its logistics hub to the Australian Renewable Energy Hub (AREH), Kimberley Marine Support Base, Qube and Toll.

AREH has plans to utilise the land to support its nearby renewables project.

Kimberley Marine Support Base, Qube and Toll have been allocated land to support stevedoring and material handling operations at Lumsden Point.

To meet water needs at Lumsden Point, Pilbara Ports has awarded a contract to Digga Civil to construct approximately 2.4 kilometres of new water mains.

These mains will connect Lumsden Point to the water supply network in the Wedgefield Industrial Area. 

The Australian Government is investing $565 million in common user port upgrades in the Pilbara, $450 million of which will enable the development of new multi-user facilities and berths at Lumsden Point.

The projects are delivered in partnership with the Western Australian Government, which is contributing $96.6 million to the project.

The first of two new wharfs at the Lumsden Point facility is scheduled for completion in mid-2026, with the operations expected to start shortly after.

A second wharf is planned to be completed in late-2026.

Further information about the Lumsden Point project is available on Pilbara Ports website.

Quotes attributable to Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:

“Lumsden Point will unlock significant economic opportunities for the Pilbara, including in battery metals exports and renewable energy. 

“We’re already seeing jobs created during construction and a range of businesses signing on as customers, demonstrating the benefits of this project for the region.”

Quotes attributable to Western Australian Ports and Regional Development Minister Stephen Dawson:

“The Cook Government is committed to diversifying trade and driving the Pilbara’s transition to renewables, and Lumsden Point is a key enabler for these initiatives.

“Progress is accelerating, with the seawalls, dredging and causeway now complete, and manufacture of the mobile harbour cranes under way.

“We are focused on creating jobs, attracting investment and strengthening the Pilbara’s role in the global supply chain.”

Quotes attributable to Western Australian Senator Glenn Sterle:

“I’m thrilled to see this latest milestone achieved on the landmark Lumsden Point project, which will unlock critical trade and investment opportunities at Port Hedland.

“With four new customers securing port land, Lumsden’s role as a strategic gateway for renewable energy, resources and logistics in the Pilbara has never been clearer.”

Quotes attributable to State Member for Pilbara Kevin Michel:

“Lumsden Point is a great opportunity for the Pilbara region, delivering trade and employment growth to ensure we remain the nation’s economic engine room long into the future.    

“The addition of new customers for the project, demonstrates a significant demand for multi-user facilities in the region, further creating more jobs and benefiting our local community.”

Source: Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority

A section of the Bulleen Road Interchange has opened as part of the Allan and Albanese Labor governments’ North East Link – the first permanent section of road to open as part of the congestion-cutting project. 

The new connection will allow traffic to keep moving while crews build the North East Link tunnel entrance and massive interchange that will connect the Eastern Freeway to the 6.5-kilometre tunnels. 

To build the new 270-metre section of Bulleen Road, crews installed more than 100 of the largest ‘Super T’ beams ever built in Victoria, each up to 43 metres long and weighing up to 126 tonnes. 

Work is ramping up on the major upgrade to the Eastern Freeway, which includes new express lanes, managed motorway technology and Melbourne’s first dedicated busway. 

In the coming months, crews will replace two key pedestrian bridges over the Eastern Freeway at Estelle Street (Balwyn) and Heyington Avenue (Doncaster), to improve connections for walkers and bike riders who cross over the freeway, and provide connections to the Koonung Creek Trail. 

To safely replace the existing bridges, sections of the Eastern Freeway will close at times overnight from late July to September. 

In September, there will also be a planned weekend full closure of the Eastern Freeway between Doncaster and Tram roads to safely lift the new Heyington Avenue bridge over the freeway without endangering traffic below. Major delays of up to 90 minutes are expected, with motorists strongly encouraged to avoid the area. 

The North East Link tunnels will connect the upgraded Eastern Freeway to the completed M80 Ring Road – cutting travel times by 35 minutes, skipping 18 sets of traffic lights and taking 15,000 trucks off local roads daily. 

This project is jointly funded by the Australian and Victorian governments, and will be complete in 2028. 

Quote attributable to Federal Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:

 “The North East Link will take thousands of trucks off local roads and slash travel times across Melbourne’s suburbs.” 

Quote attributable to Victorian Minister for Transport Infrastructure Gabrielle Williams: 

“The North East Link has been talked about for decades and we are getting on and delivering it – creating thousands of jobs in the process.” 

Quote attributable to Federal Member for Menzies Gabriel Ng: 

“This is an important step, for the Albanese and Allan Labor Governments, in delivering safer, faster transport options for locals” 

Quote attributable to Victorian Member for Ivanhoe Anthony Carbines: 

“We are getting on with delivering this important project which will improve traffic flow and take trucks off local roads.”