Businesses lose thousands as roadworks deter customers
By Kirra Livingstone
BUSINESSES say they are losing thousands of dollars a day due to extensive roadworks along Steve Irwin Way. Transport and Main Roads are undertaking a $43 million upgrade of Steve Irwin Way between Beerwah and Glass House Mountains.
Work started on July 22 and businesses in the path of the upgrades have either temporarily closed down or reported a significant fall in revenue.
Small signs saying “shops are still open” are the only indication that the traders remain open for business.
There is a temporary car park a few metres down the road for customers to park and walk to the shops, but businesses have seen a decline in customers.
Glasshouse Grind owner, Bec Gardiner, said the roadworks have been devastating for her business.
“We are shutting a lot earlier and staff hours have been cut,” she said.
One person had to get another job as she was relying on hours.
“All our staff have missed out on hours. We are all parents; we have kids and mouths to feed, and most of us live week to week,” she said.
“It’s taking food off tables, so it’s been very difficult.
“Two other staff members are taking time off while the roadworks are ongoing.”
Bec added that they had always had strong support from truck drivers who would stop for a drink and snack, but now there is nowhere for them to park.
It is understood that The Lost Treasure Shop has closed during the roadworks.
Across the road, the Pineapple Patch Chinese restaurant remains open.
TMR says this stretch of road has a significant crash history, including rear-end, run-off-road, and head-on crashes.
The project will reduce the potential for crashes through safety treatments, including road and shoulder widening, wide centre line treatment, new dedicated turning lanes at select locations, and the streamlining of access points to certain businesses and private residences, so there are fewer driveways connecting directly to Steve Irwin Way.
A Transport and Main Roads spokesperson said works in front of the shops include the construction of a service road, turning lanes, and a formalised parking area.
“This will address the significant risks posed by the pre-existing informal access and parking arrangements at this location,” they said.
“A well-signed temporary parking area is being provided to ensure safe access for shop patrons during these works.”
The spokesperson advised that if anyone is affected by the works, they should call 07 3568 5684 or email SIWsafety@tmr.qld.gov.au.
Roadworks around the affected businesses are expected to be completed by mid-August.
The entire upgrade is expected to be completed by mid-2025.