More Central Queensland bridge upgrades

Another four timber bridges on the Dawson and Leichhardt highways are about to be consigned to history.

Parliamentary Secretary for Main Roads, Andrew McNamara, said the additional bridges will see the State Government commit another $14 million to the $78 million Accelerated Road Rehabilitation Project in Central Queensland.

“The bridge upgrades will coincide with work already underway on the Dawson Highway.

“Work has progressed so quickly, we’re in a position to add another four bridges to the equation and still meet the end of year completion date.

“This is Smart State value adding to the project because the specialist equipment and expertise are already on site – and that means we can fast track the additional bridges and at the same time save money.

“The extra bridges earmarked for removal and replacement on the Dawson Highway includes the Oaky Creek crossing, Scrubby Creek and Neville Creek, along with Lonesome Creek bridge on the Leichhardt Highway.

“Like other timber bridges along the highway, prestressed concrete structures will take their place.

They’re easier, less expensive to maintain and in the long run will free up money for other road projects in the region that would ordinarily be tied up in maintenance.”

Mr McNamara said the Accelerated Road Rehabilitation Project in Central Queensland had already replaced three timber bridges since August and when finished by the end of the year will see 71 kilometres of the Dawson Highway widened and resurfaced.

Media Contact: Darren Roberts 3237 1947