A roadworks project worth more than $100 million has kicked-off in Cairns.

The jointly-funded upgrade from Kate Street to Aumuller Street would help to improve safety and ease of access said Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack.

The announcement was expected to be well received by an estimated 37,000 drivers who accessed the corridor each day said Mr McCormack.

“Widening the highway from four to six lanes will cater for the steadily increasing traffic flows along this critical corridor, to and from the Port of Cairns, the wharf precinct and the city’s central business district,” he said.

The project would improve the efficiency of traffic flow on the southern approach to Cairns said Member for Leichhardt Warren Entsch.

“Once finished, residents and businesses will notice an immediate improvement in traffic flows along the 2.6 kilometre stretch of the highway,” Mr Entsch said.

Queensland Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the tender assessment included engagement with a local supplier and sub-contractor.

“The recent contract award to Georgiou-Koppen Joint Venture means works have started to improve this vital link that drives transport, tourism and the Cairns’ economy,” Mr Bailey said.

The project is expected to support more than 100 jobs and is scheduled for completion in late 2021.

The Bruce Highway – Cairns Southern Access Corridor – Stage 4 – Kate to Aumuller project is jointly funded by the Australian ($83.3 million) and Queensland ($20.8 million) governments.