First Avenue Upgrade, Maroochydore: What’s Happening & What to Expect

Sunshine Coast Council are pleased to announce that construction on a major streetscape transformation along First Avenue in Maroochydore is commencing this month. This project is aiming to create a vibrant, safer and more welcoming urban space for residents, businesses and visitors.

What’s the Project About?

The First Avenue Upgrade is more than a roadworks project, it’s a complete revitalisation of the public realm between Aerodrome Road and The Esplanade / Duporth Avenue. The project vision is to turn this important connector into a green, pedestrian-friendly corridor that supports local businesses and enhances the liveability of Maroochydore’s city centre.

Key goals include:

• Creating safer spaces for people walking and cycling
• Improving traffic flow and pedestrian crossings
• Upgrading underground services (water, power, telecommunications, stormwater)
• Introducing shade trees, landscaping and new street furniture
• Relocating and upgrading bus stops to better integrate with shared paths and footpaths

This project follows years of community consultation and design development between 2018 and 2022.

Timeline & Funding

• Construction Period: February 2026 – May 2027 (weather and site conditions permitting).
• Council Funding: $15.9 million contribution.
• Federal Support: $11.9 million from the Australian Government’s Growing Regions Program.

Traffic & Access Changes

As the upgrade progresses, there will be temporary and permanent changes to traffic conditions and parking to keep the site safe and flowing.

Key impacts from late February onward include:

• Northbound traffic closure on First Avenue from The Esplanade to Aerodrome Road – southbound access will remain open.
• Intermittent lane closures and traffic lights at key intersections during early works.
• Changes to pedestrian access, with clearly signed detours while maintaining access to shops and homes.
• Removal of street parking in sections of First Avenue to make way for work zones and construction equipment.
• Relocated Route 600 bus stops to nearby streets to minimise disruption and enhance safety.

The Council is working hard to minimise impacts on access to businesses and residences, including through staged works and advance notice of any disruptions.

What You’ll See on Site

During February and beyond, expect staged works including:

• Installation of construction fencing, signage and site setup.
• Underground services investigation and water main works (from about 20 Feb).
• Active construction operations with contractors and equipment visible along First Avenue.
• Day and night works: Most activity will be during the day, but some night works are required for safety.

Stay Informed

Council encourages local residents and businesses to subscribe for project updates, which include detailed plans for each stage of construction and traffic changes. You can also contact the project team directly via email: FirstAvenueUpgrade@sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au.

Source: Sunshine Coast Council