Residents in Bracken Ridge are being asked to provide their thoughts on a significant redesign of the Gateway Motorway and Bruce Highway that aims to fix local traffic.
A Long-Awaited Solution for Drivers
The first stage of this multi-phase plan focuses on the Gateway to Bruce Upgrade. This part of the project targets the Gateway Motorway starting at Bracken Ridge and stretching to the Pine River. It also involves work on the Bruce Highway at the busy interchange where it meets the Gympie Arterial Road. Engineers are currently working on the final detailed designs for these sections.
Construction crews are expected to arrive on-site to begin the physical building process in late 2026. This initial phase is a priority because it tackles a transport corridor that is known for being one of the most crowded and difficult to navigate in the northern part of Brisbane.
Expansion and Environmental Protection
Once the first section is underway, the focus will shift to a second stage of improvements. This part of the plan involves building collector-distributor roads on both sides of the Bruce Highway. These new roads will create a direct link between Dohles Rocks Road and the Gateway Motorway.
To make this possible, the government plans to build two new bridges over the Pine River. This stage is currently in the preliminary design phase, though officials noted that they still need to secure more money before this specific portion of the work can start.
The project is not just for cars and trucks. The plans include a longer path for people who walk or ride bikes, extending the existing shared track north over the Pine River. Designers have also included a special tunnel under the road for local animals. This fauna underpass will be located on the north side of the new river bridges to help wildlife move safely through the area without having to cross the busy highway lanes.
Opportunities for Local Feedback
Residents have several chances to look at the updated design details and see how the changes might affect their daily travel. The project team is hosting a series of community meetings where people can ask questions and see artist drawings of the finished roads. The first session is set for Saturday 28 March from 9am to 12pm at the Sandgate Scout Hall. Another meeting will take place at the Murrumba Downs Shopping Centre on Tuesday 31 March between 2pm and 5pm.
In April, the team will move to Westfield Chermside near the Kmart entrance on Thursday 16 April from 6pm to 9pm. This will be followed by a session at the Bald Hills Scout Hall on Tuesday 21 April from 4pm to 7pm. The final two meetings are scheduled for Thursday 30 April at Bracken Ridge Plaza from 3pm to 6pm and Saturday 2 May at Westfield North Lakes near Coles from 9am to 12pm. For those who cannot attend in person, an interactive website is available to show the project’s progress and key goals.
Published Date 17-March-2026
Photo Credit: Have Your Say
