The new concrete Felltimber Road Bridge over Coombing Creek is open to traffic, replacing the old one-lane wooden structure and allowing the previous five-tonne load limit to be lifted.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Darren Chester said the Australian Government was investing a record $75 billion in infrastructure projects nationwide to deliver a safer and more efficient national transport network.
“The new Felltimber Road Bridge is just one of many projects delivered under the Bridges Renewal Programme, which the Coalition developed and implemented to help upgrade and repair bridges so communities are better connected and regional businesses can get their product to market more efficiently,” Mr Chester said.
“This project is a fantastic example of how the programme is funding superior transport infrastructure for communities right around the nation.”
Federal Member for Calare Andrew Gee said the upgrade had brought the crossing into the 21st century.
“Emergency vehicles and other heavy vehicles will now be able to use the bridge because the previous five-tonne load limit has been lifted,” Mr Gee said.
“The Australian Government is investing more than $325 million in infrastructure across the Calare electorate, and this is just one of many projects that will ensure the region has the transport links it needs to thrive.”
Blayney Shire Mayor Scott Ferguson said the project had greatly improved freight efficiency by reducing travel times for primary producers connecting to regional sales facilities.
“This bridge is ‘futureproofed’, reducing the cost burden on Council in the form of ongoing maintenance costs,” Cr Ferguson said.
“The improved connections will have immediate benefits for local industry and will also be of great assistance to the entire community in the event of bushfires or other emergencies.”
The project is jointly funded by the Australian Government and Blayney Shire Council, with each committing $165,000. For further information on the Bridges Renewal Programme, visit investment.infrastructure.gov.au/funding/Bridgesrenewal/Index.aspx.