Vines Creek Bridges out for tender

Tenders are now open for the construction of the Vines Creek Bridges Replacement Project to start in April next year.

Main Roads and Road Safety Minister Mark Bailey said companies were invited to tender for the $28 million project, which would replace the two double lane bridges on Mackay Slade Point Road.

“An average of 42 jobs will be supported over the life of the project, which has been brought forward under the Palaszczuk Government’s Accelerated Works Program,” Mr Bailey said.

“The tender phase has been brought forward nine months and the construction period six months, which is great news for the construction industry.”

Member for Mackay Julianne Gilbert said the design of the new bridges was complete.

“With the design complete and tenders now open, the next step will be the award of the successful tender in March 2017, followed by start of construction in April,” Ms Gilbert said.

“The Vines Creek Bridges are the sole access for heavy vehicles travelling to and from the Mackay Port, making them a vital link in Mackay’s transport network.

“Out of the 15,400 vehicles that travel on Mackay-Slade Point Road between North Mackay and the harbour roundabout each day, 10 per cent of these are commercial vehicles.

“The new bridges will have an increased mass limit which will greatly improve access for heavy vehicles and cater for future growth in the region”

Ms Gilbert said the design included the construction of a dedicated footbridge.

“Having a dedicated shared path for pedestrians and cyclists will help promote cycling as a viable transport option in Mackay and improve safety for all road users,” she said.

“The project will also benefit the wider community with flood improvement.

“Thanks to the fast-tracked delivery, the Palaszczuk Government is ensuring Mackay will have access to improved road infrastructure sooner.

Works are due to be completed in March 2019, weather permitting.

ENDS

Media contact:            Amy Hunter- 0423 651 484