A heated dispute has broken out over Black Spot Programme funding distribution. The conflict centres around the fact that only two intersections, known for their high accident rates, were granted funds.
The Morningside intersection, along with five others, was denied funding despite having a record of 53 accidents over five years, half of which led to hospitalisation.
Infrastructure Chair Cr Andrew Wines expressed frustration that all six rejected intersections met the Federal Government’s funding criteria. He highlighted that Brisbane would only receive six per cent of Queensland’s funding, while Logan City Council, with a strong Labour presence, secured 34 per cent.
Photo Credit: Screengrab from Google Map
State Transport and Main Roads Minister Bart Mellish defended the decision, stating that grants were assessed through an independent merit-based process. He criticised the LNP for attacking public officials and suggested that the Brisbane City Council focus on its infrastructure responsibilities.
Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner voiced disappointment over the lack of support, emphasising the need to improve safety in a rapidly growing city. He vowed to continue fighting for Brisbane’s fair share of funding.
Photo Credit: Screengrab from Google Map
Cr Wines underscored the unprecedented nature of this year’s rejections, stating that Brisbane had been denied submissions for the first time in the Black Spot Programme’s history.
A Department of Transport and Main Roads spokesperson clarified that the Black Spot Programme was reserved for local government roads and that committees assessed submissions with representation from various stakeholders. Only two of Brisbane City Council’s eight nominations met the benefit-cost ratio cut-off.
Photo Credit: Screengrab from Google Map
The two successful intersections were Melton Rd/Nellie St at Nundah and Wynnum Rd/Southgate Ave at Cannon Hill.
Published Date 21-August-2024