First Avenue upgrade - Maroochydore

Why is Council doing this upgrade?

First Avenue will be upgraded to help the street operate more safely and efficiently, and enhance the look and experience of the area.

The upgrade will provide an attractive and safe environment for pedestrians and cyclists, improve and increase spaces for local businesses, help calm local traffic and will create cool, shady and green streets for all to enjoy.

The project will also deliver wider footpaths, enhanced landscaping, improved accessibility for people with disabilities and new areas for community activity.

Why was the upgrade delayed?

Construction was originally forecast to start late 2022 and was rescheduled to 2024, however during this time construction industry cost escalations impacted Council’s ability to award a contract that achieved value to ratepayers. 

Council remained committed to the First Avenue Streetscape upgrade and continued to work to secure further funding and delivery opportunities.

After receiving $11.9 million from the Australian Government’s Growing Regions Program, Council undertook a public tender process in 2025.

GRC Civil, a highly experienced Sunshine Coast-based infrastructure construction company was appointed to construct this transformative project.

When will the upgrade be completed?

Construction started in mid-February 2026 and is expected to continue through 2027, weather and site conditions permitting.

What temporary traffic and parking changes will occur during construction?

Temporary traffic changes:

For our community’s and construction workers’ safety First Avenue will have reduced speeds and some changes to traffic conditions including detours during construction.

Access to businesses and residences and the Cornmeal Parade public car park will remain available, sometimes under traffic control or via detours.

The northbound lane of First Avenue will be closed for approximately 15 months (reopening May 2027) from The Esplanade to Aerodrome Road. Southbound traffic will be permitted only.  

There will be intermittent single-lane closures with traffic controllers in place.

Temporary parking changes:

For safety and accessibility reasons, some on-street parking bays will be used for construction equipment and vehicles as required.

Temporary pedestrian changes:

Some changes to pedestrian access will be required at times (while still permitting access to local businesses).

Can I still access the Bus Stop Route 600?

During upcoming construction works, some temporary bus route changes are required for our community’s safety and convenience.

The Bus Stop on First Avenue near Memorial Drive will be relocated from First Avenue.  

The southbound Translink Route 600 Bus Service will be diverted along Second Avenue, for a period of approximately 12 months, starting from 20 February 2026.

For our community’s comfort, a temporary bus stop will be constructed adjacent to the ‘Focal Point’ building, in the vicinity of 18 Second Avenue.

To allow safe traffic movements for the bus and passengers, and accommodate the temporary bus stop, three on-street parking bays and a small tree will be removed from this area.

When the First Avenue project’s construction progress permits, the northbound Route 600 will return to First Avenue, at which time the Second Avenue temporary bus stop will be removed, and the three parking bays and tree reinstated.

The permanent southbound bus stop will be located on The Esplanade near First Avenue.

Please visit the Translink website for further information.

What are the permanent traffic changes once the project is complete?

Once the First Avenue Streetscape Upgrade is complete, permanent changes will include the removal of 19 on‑street car parks, a reduction in the speed limit from 50 km/h to 40 km/h, and the introduction of two raised pedestrian crossings—one on First Avenue and another on the adjoining side street—to help calm traffic and improve safety.

Is there any car parking loss?

The project will deliver wider footpaths, enhanced landscaping, improved accessibility for people with disabilities and new areas for community activity.

As part of the upgrade, 19 on-street car parks will be removed to allow for these improvements.

While some parking will be reduced, there are still nearby off-street parking options and timed parking available to ensure convenience and turnover.

These changes have been carefully planned to balance accessibility with the benefits of a more pedestrian-friendly environment.

By reallocating on‑street parking to create wider footpaths and safer pedestrian areas, we’re encouraging people to slow down, stay longer and explore local shops and cafés. This helps boost trade and supports a more vibrant, walkable town centre.

The project will create a safer, more inclusive town centre that supports local businesses, encourages walking and cycling, and provides a welcoming space for our community. It also helps reduce congestion and promotes sustainable transport choices.

What landscaping will be included in the project?

Approximately seventy new trees and 2,000 plants will form part of the upgrade and help to cool the street and create places to stop, chat and enjoy.

Greener streets aren’t just attractive but provide welcome shade, are cooler in summer, and better for local business because people stay longer.

How will council assist businesses impacted by the project?

While revitalisation projects do bring some inconvenience, access will remain available to all the businesses along First Avenue.

Council has been working with local traders and residents to help support them and keep them informed during construction.

Council doesn't provide financial compensation related to construction disruption; however Council has, and is, providing a range of business support initiatives to assist businesses pre-construction, during and post-construction, which can be found on our website.

Council has produced a Business Continuity Guide to help manage impacts during upgrade projects. 

How much will the project cost?

The project will be delivered thanks to $11.9 million from the Australian Government’s Growing Regions Program, together with $15.9 million in funding from Sunshine Coast Council.

The project will connect the established northern section of First Avenue and the newly expanded Maroochydore central business district (CBD), Aerodrome Road and surrounds, including to The Esplanade and Duporth Avenue.