The troubled Caloundra traffic network continues to dominate public debate in the 4551 postcode as congestion grows in line with our population.

Caloundra Residents Association has requested community engagement as the first port of call for the newly elected state government after the 26 October election and called upon the Department of Transport and Main Roads to make community consultation their initial priority action.

In September, the LNP announced a $400 million congestion busting traffic plan LNP leader, David Crisafulli said would “end the Caloundra carpark” and get the choked bottlenecks moving again.

The announcement is part of the LNP’s Safer Road, Better Transport program to accommodate future growth across the 4551 area and includes:

• Completing the Nicklin Way to Third Avenue connection to take traffic off the Nicklin Way-Caloundra Road roundabout, providing alternative access into Caloundra’s CBD.
• Delivering a new link between Aura Boulevard to Pelican Waters Boulevard to ease pressure on Caloundra Road.
• Constructing a new Kawana Way Link Road/Bells Creek Arterial Road overpass over Caloundra Road to keep traffic moving.
• Signalising and upgrading the Bellvista Boulevard-Caloundra Road intersection with slip lanes to and from Caloundra Road to boost capacity and move vehicles more quickly.
• Fast-tracking construction by directing TMR to commence planning for a congestion solution for the Nicklin Way/Caloundra Road roundabout.

Caloundra Residents Association (CRA) president Craig Humphrey said there were nine projects aimed at improving transport in our area, with no apparent cohesive coordination.

“These initiatives are set to take place within a 4km radius of Caloundra, with varying delivery timeframes leading up to the 2032 Olympics—just eight years away,” Mr Humphrey said.

“The multi-generational impact of these projects cannot be overstated.

“This presents us with a critical opportunity to establish a legacy of efficient transport services for future generations.

“The projects include enhancements to heavy rail, expansion of road networks, upgrades to two nearby roundabouts, interim increases to bus services, the introduction of bus rapid transit, and improvements in active transport options.”

To ensure these projects work in harmony, the CRA is advocating for an integrated community engagement process.

This initiative would unite key stakeholders—government bodies, community groups, and local businesses—to collaboratively assess and enhance coordination and community involvement in these developments.

“By fostering informed dialogue, we can help our community navigate these changes effectively, creating a transport network that serves both current and future residents and visitors,” Mr Humphrey said.

“I urge all Caloundra electorate candidates to publicly commit to supporting the Department of Transport and Main Roads to collaborate with the CRA and the community.

“Together, we can maximise the cumulative benefits of these projects and address the transport challenges we face.”

Mr Humphrey said the CRA was “committed to working proactively and positively” with any elected officials to promote community participation in achieving quality decisions that enhance Caloundra’s liveability.

“We anticipate early and ongoing communication with our elected State representative to ensure we preserve a community that our children’s children will cherish,” he said.