M9 Connector Relief Stabilizes Northern Traffic While Springbrook Roadworks Begin

Friday Morning Traffic: M9 Relief for Northern Commuters

As we head into the final Friday of February 2026, Gold Coast motorists are seeing the ongoing benefits of major infrastructure completions, though new hinterland works require attention this morning. The overall network is performing well, but several key zones are under active management to ensure a smooth flow of traffic for the morning peak.

Northern Corridor: M9 Impact

The northern commute remains significantly improved following the December opening of the Coomera Connector (M9) North section between Shipper Drive and Helensvale Road. Commuters travelling between Coomera and Helensvale are encouraged to use this four-lane alternative to the Pacific Motorway (M1) to avoid traditional bottlenecking at the Pimpama and Oxenford interchanges.

• M1 Alert: While the M1 is flowing better, expect minor delays near the Smith Street Motorway as construction continues on the M9 Central package.
• Helensvale: High volumes are expected around the new Helensvale Road interchange as motorists adjust to the new traffic patterns this morning.

Hinterland Warning: Mudgeeraba Creek Causeway

A major alert for hinterland residents: construction is officially commencing this week on the Mudgeeraba Creek Causeway upgrade. Located on Gold Coast–Springbrook Road, approximately 8km south-west of Mudgeeraba, this project is part of a flood-resiliency effort to replace the existing causeway with a higher, wider structure.

• Commuter Impact: Motorists should prepare for lane closures and the presence of traffic controllers. Speed limits have been reduced in the area to ensure the safety of construction crews.
• Work Hours: Standard day works from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM are in effect. Residents heading into the hinterland should allow an extra 10 to 15 minutes for their journey.

Southern Coast: Light Rail Testing and Lane Changes

Along the Gold Coast Highway, Light Rail Stage 3 infrastructure is nearing its final configuration. While the tracks are now laid between Broadbeach South and Burleigh Heads, commuters will notice ongoing activity at the eight new station sites as crews install ticketing machines and furniture. Lane closures are likely during the off-peak hours today to facilitate these finishing touches.

Testing and commissioning remain active. While testing occurs primarily at night, motorists are urged to be vigilant for trams on the tracks. The 'Sam the Tram' safety campaign is in full swing, reminding drivers to ditch distractions and obey all new signalized intersections. U-turns are strictly prohibited except where specifically indicated by traffic signals. The G:link extension is not yet open for public passengers, so standard bus routes remain the primary transport options for the southern corridor.

General Road Maintenance

The City’s 2025-26 road rehabilitation program is active this morning across several suburbs. Expect minor disruptions in the following locations:

• Ashmore: Resealing works on Ashmore Road and Cotlew Street.
• Mudgeeraba: Maintenance on Berrigans Road.
• Runaway Bay: Patching and line marking on Bayview Street.
• Benowa: Ongoing works on Benowa Road.