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A Push To Ease Pressure On Caloundra Roads

The Caloundra congestion relief plan has been officially included in the Queensland Transport and Roads Investment Program, with construction set to begin later this year. The upgrades will target five major traffic hotspots that locals say have caused long-standing delays during school runs, commutes and weekends. 

Caloundra Road now sees over 32,000 vehicles daily, with traffic increasing by more than 30 per cent in the past 20 years. Local leaders say the gridlock has affected everyday life and business movement across the region. 

The plan combines five infrastructure projects, including key intersection upgrades and new links to ease pressure. The transport department says the aim is to improve road safety, increase access, and support Caloundra’s growing population.

What The Plan Includes

The upgrade includes completing the Nicklin Way to Third Avenue connection to give drivers another route into Caloundra’s CBD. An overpass will link Kawana Way Link Road and Bells Creek Arterial over Caloundra Road, while other works will improve key intersections, including Bellvista Boulevard and Pelican Waters Boulevard. 

Early works have started on some sites, with overpass design planning expected before the end of 2025. While a $400 million cost was pledged before the election, final figures haven’t been confirmed. Premier David Crisafulli said actual costs will become clear after the tender process.

Community Relief And Cautious Optimism

Residents and business owners have long pushed for action on Caloundra’s traffic issues, which worsen during school times and holidays. Locals say rapid growth in nearby areas like Aura and Baringa has added pressure to already busy roads. MP Kendall Morton noted the congestion has made even short trips difficult, while Mayor Rosanna Natoli said the upgrades will help with day-to-day life and local business. 

Some concerns remain over the lack of detailed costings, but the overall response from the community has been positive. The government says it will focus on cost-effective delivery through staged construction and competitive tendering.

What Comes Next

All five parts of the Caloundra congestion relief plan are now fully funded under the state’s QTRIP program. Major construction is set to begin in stages from the second half of 2025, with some early site work already underway. No completion date has been confirmed, but the upgrades will be rolled out gradually to limit disruptions. 

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Authorities have asked locals for patience, as temporary traffic changes will be needed during the build. Once finished, the works are expected to ease congestion and improve road links across the Sunshine Coast.

Published 05-July-2025

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