A major upgrade has begun in Buderim to improve the Sugar Road and Mooloolaba Road intersection, a location used by about 20,000 motorists daily.
Background And Project Context In Buderim
Work has commenced on the long-awaited upgrade of the Sugar Road and Mooloolaba Road intersection in Buderim. The project spans the section between Syd Lingard Drive and Tantula Road West, an area known for congestion and a high crash rate.
Earlier plans for improvements at this intersection did not proceed, with the current works moving forward as part of broader efforts to support the Sunshine Coast’s growing transport needs ahead of the 2032 Games. Early works, including vegetation clearing, have already started and will continue over the coming months. The full project is expected to be completed next year.
Scope Of Works And Planned Improvements
The upgrade includes several design changes intended to improve traffic flow and safety. Road widening will provide additional westbound capacity from Sugar Road, while modified right-turn lanes will be constructed eastbound on the Mooloolaba Road overpass. Two dedicated left-turn lanes from Sugar Road to Mooloolaba Road are also planned.
Further improvements include realigning the slip lane at the motorway’s southbound exit ramp, providing new on-road bike lanes, constructing off-road paths, adding signalised pedestrian crossings, and installing upgraded lighting.
Community Sentiment And Local Impact
The intersection is widely regarded as a bottleneck, particularly during morning and afternoon peak periods. With about 20,000 daily vehicle movements, the upgrade is expected to improve travel reliability and safety for motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians throughout Buderim and nearby suburbs.
Next Steps
Construction activity will continue across the area as works progress into next year. Once completed, the upgrade is expected to reduce congestion, increase traffic capacity, and strengthen connections to key destinations on the Sunshine Coast.
Published 19-Nov-2025