Major works on the multi-million dollar East Ipswich station upgrade are on-track to begin later this year, with the contract this week awarded for construction.

As early works begin to wrap up, the Palaszczuk Government has announced Hutchinson Builders will deliver the makeover, supporting more than 250 jobs in in construction, electrical, carpentry, plumbing and roofing – 90 per cent of which will be sourced locally.

Member for Ipswich Jennifer Howard, who earlier this year unveiled designs for the upgrade, said she looked forward to seeing jobs created and works get underway on an accessible station for all commuters.

The upgrade will include a new footbridge with lifts, raised platforms at assisted boarding points, hearing aid loops and tactile platform surfaces, a new bicycle enclosure, accessible parking, and improved security through upgraded lighting and CCTV.

“Investing in Queensland infrastructure means creating Queensland jobs,” Ms Howard said.

“This is especially important now as we move from a public health response to COVID-19 to an economic response, as restrictions continue to progressively ease.

“Our community has been overwhelmingly on board this project since we confirmed the upgrade two years ago, and I’ve made sure Queensland Rail has included many of the adjustments requested by the community so that locals requiring assisted mobility, families with prams or those carrying luggage, can use their local accessible station.

Ms Howard said the project is part of the Palaszczuk Government’s $357 million station accessibility upgrade program, and adds to other major transport projects like the $5.4 billion Cross River Rail and $371 million statewide smart ticketing system.

For more information visit www.queenslandrail.com.au