The Queensland government selected Leighton Contractors as preferred partner to join Queensland Transport and SKM-Maunsell AECOM in an alliance that will see the busway extended from Buranda to Main Avenue.The project worth about $500 million consists of a 1.05km two-way single carriageway busway which will connect the existing South East Busway at Buranda to Coorparoo via Stones Corner. Construction of this section of the Eastern Busway – Buranda to Main Avenue – is on track to start in mid-2009 with completion expected by early 2012.Leighton’s Northern Region general manager Darren Weir said he was looking forward to bringing Leighton’s expertise in tunnel and busway construction to the alliance.“We will apply best practice techniques and principles to deliver an outstanding public transport network for Brisbane’s south and the wider community,” Weir said. “At the heart of delivering this vital infrastructure is our desire to construct accessible, attractive and efficient transport systems and networks for the Queensland community.” Leighton said the Buranda to Main Avenue busway would help relieve congestion and significantly reduce travel times for public transport commuters.