The announcement of a new $7.4 million pedestrian bridge to be built at Reid Park, adjacent to the new North Queensland Stadium, is another boost for members and fans attending Cowboys home games from 2020.
The new Reid Park Active Transport Bridge will be located 450m to the south of the new stadium and will provide pedestrian access over the railway line from car parking at Reid Park.
The infrastructure investment will complement the conversion of the Little Fletcher Bridge, part of the Townsville Waterfront Promenade project, which will give a direct pedestrian link to the new stadium from the Central precinct.
North Queensland Toyota Cowboys CEO Jeff Reibel said the club was delighted with the second announcement on pedestrian infrastructure around the new stadium in as many months.
"It's fantastic to see these exciting projects in the pipeline that will enhance the game-day experience for our members and fans from 2020," Mr Reibel said.
"As planning progresses we're seeing the blueprint of our travel to and from the new stadium taking shape, and how the CBD and surrounding precinct will open up access to the venue.
"Over the coming months this will really come together as our government and city stakeholders finalise the city's traffic management plan for Cowboys game days and events at North Queensland Stadium.
"We're committed to making the transition to our new CBD stadium as streamlined as possible for our members and fans, and to the contribution we can all make to a revitalised city heart."
The project is part of the Queensland Government's $40 million Growth Area and Regional Infrastructure Investment Fund.
Member for Townsville Scott Stewart said the project would improve liveability and bring more employment to the north.
“The Reid Park Active Transport Bridge is crucial to ensure the efficient operation of North Queensland Stadium, delivering improved, safer and more direct access between park-and-ride facilities and our city’s new sports and entertainment precinct," Mr Stewart said.
Councillor Jenny Hill, Mayor of Townsville, welcomed the funding for the pedestrian and cycle bridge and said this provides safe access over the rail lines to over 1,100 car parks at Reid Park.
"The new bridge is part of the broader plan for traffic, pedestrian and car parking for the new stadium which focusses on maximising the game day experience for fans and activating our CBD," Cr Hill said.
The bridge will be delivered by the Department of Transport and Main Roads.
