Division 1 residents are set to benefit from significant infrastructure and community investments following the adoption of Ipswich City Council’s 2026–27 Budget, with major road upgrades, sporting facilities and park improvements among the key projects.
Speaking on West Bremer Radio, Division 1 Councillor Jacob Madsen said the budget delivers long-awaited infrastructure for one of Ipswich’s fastest-growing areas.
One of the biggest commitments is $108 million over the next three years to deliver Stages 1 and 2 of the Ripley Road Upgrade, funded through Economic Development Queensland’s Catalyst Infrastructure Fund and the Queensland Government’s Residential Activation Fund.
“Some of these projects are a long time coming,” Cr Madsen said.
“With the growth we’re experiencing, it does feel like some of these projects are later than we would have liked, but at least the work is getting done now.”
The budget also allocates $19.7 million over three years to transform Fischer Road into a two-lane urban road between Neville Road and Monterea Road through Ripley Township.
The upgrade will replace the existing temporary road layout and improve traffic flow, safety and access for local residents.
Sporting Facilities Receive a Boost
Community sport is another major winner, with $8.7 million committed to developing two new sporting fields, additional parking and back-netting at the Redbank Plains Recreation Reserve.
The project is being funded through the South East Queensland City Deal’s Liveability Fund.
Construction is already underway, with fencing and site works now visible.
Local parks will also benefit, with more than $915,000 allocated to rehabilitation works at Paddington Reserve and North Cressbrook Park, ensuring recreational spaces continue to meet the needs of the growing community.
Skate Park Improvements
Cr Madsen also announced a practical upgrade for the popular Redbank Plains Recreation Reserve Skate Park, where a new connecting concrete slab will be installed to improve safety and usability.
“The skate park has been a great project and very successful since it was built, but it’s become clear there’s a missing section that needs connecting,” he said.
The work will be delivered through Council’s Provisional Projects Sub Program, which enables councillors to respond quickly to smaller community improvement projects.
Ripley Road Traffic Changes
Motorists are also being reminded of changed traffic conditions as construction continues on the Ripley Road Upgrade.
Traffic has now been switched onto the newly completed northbound lanes while work begins on the southbound carriageway.
The temporary arrangement is expected to remain in place for around six months.
Cr Madsen thanked motorists for their patience during construction.
“I know it’s frustrating, but this is what’s necessary for the project to go ahead and for the upgrade to happen,” he said.
He also revealed that improvements at the busy Ripley Road and Reif Street intersection at Flinders View are expected to be completed by the end of August.
The upgrade will introduce slip lanes and improve traffic flow by allowing vehicles to access the Cunningham Highway more efficiently without navigating the existing roundabout.
Backing the Ipswich Force
Away from council business, Cr Madsen also encouraged residents to get behind the Ipswich Force basketball teams as they continue their finals campaign.
He praised the performances of several players throughout the season, including local talent Merrick Small, who he said has continued to develop into a dominant presence on the court.
“We should definitely get behind the Force and support the team,” Cr Madsen said.
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