New bridges to bust M1 congestion

Work has started to install almost 400 bridge decks for two new northbound bridges across Mudgeeraba Creek on Queensland’s M1 - Pacific Motorway.

Federal Minister for Population, Cities and Urban Infrastructure Alan Tudge said the new bridges form part of the congestion-busting M1 - Pacific Motorway, Mudgeeraba to Varsity Lakes upgrade.

“Delivering these two new bridges across the Mudgeeraba Creek is vital to bust congestion and better connect local businesses, communities and motorists in the region,” Mr Tudge said.

“The new bridges will be wider and higher to help with traffic flows and better withstand flooding in this low-lying area.”

Queensland Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said as the bridge decks are lifted into place, works to construct the new northbound carriageway between Robina (Exit 82) and Mudgeeraba (Exit 79) will continue.

“Works of this size and scale require careful planning and execution to minimise impacts and ensure the safety of workers and motorists,” Mr Bailey said.

“About 400 pre-cast bridge decks will be lifted into place to construct the two new bridges.”

Federal Member for McPherson Karen Andrews said each deck unit weighs around 10 tonnes and extends over 12 metres in length.

“A 110-tonne crawler crane will be used to safely carry out these heavy construction works,” Ms Andrews said.

“When all the deck units are installed, final concrete and barrier works will be carried out to complete both bridges in what is an exciting milestone for this congestion-busting upgrade.” 

State Member for Gaven Meaghan Scanlon said the new bridges are expected to open in late 2019, after previous bridges across the creek were removed in late 2018.

“Upgrading the M1 across the floodplains will mean a more flood resilient and reliable connection for local businesses and communities on this part of the Coast,” Ms Scanlon said.

“The project team has already invested over 500,000 work hours to this point and the community’s ongoing patience while we get this upgrade done is greatly appreciated.”

The M1 - Pacific Motorway, Mudgeeraba to Varsity Lakes project is scheduled for completion by mid-2020, weather permitting.

The M1 - Pacific Motorway, Mudgeeraba to Varsity Lakes project is a jointly funded project with the Australian Government committing $110 million and the Queensland Government $87.5 million, towards the $197.5 million project.

ENDS

Media Contact: Toby Walker - 0439 347 875