Don Tallon Bridge to reopen tomorrow

The Don Tallon Bridge in Bundaberg will reopen to traffic from tomorrow morning.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson said the Australian Defence Force was progressing very well with the removal of the temporary steel bridge.

“In conjunction, my department has already been able to make a start on the final road surface repairs, including the laying of asphalt,” Mr Emerson said.

“If everything continues to progress well overnight, we expect both lanes of the bridge will be fully restored in the morning and available for peak hour traffic.

“Once reopened, all vehicles will be able to use the major transport and freight link, including heavy vehicle operators.”

Minister for Police and Community Safety and Member for Bundaberg Jack Dempsey congratulated everyone involved in completing this massive task.

“A special thanks to the Army for all of its assistance in setting up and removing the temporary steel bridge, which has been of great benefit the past few days,” Mr Dempsey said.

“Transport and Main Roads has also done an incredible job in reopening the bridge so quickly given the significance of the damage and definitely shown its commitment to getting Queensland back on its feet.

“I’d also like to thank the travelling public who have been extremely patient and cooperative while Transport and Main Roads has worked to repair the bridge.

“It’s a major milestone and I believe we’ve taken another huge step in bringing both communities either side of the Burnett River back together after the devastating flood.”

For up-to-date traffic and travel information, visit www.131940.qld.gov.au or call 13 19 40.

[ENDS] 13 February 2013                                  

Media contact:           Stephanie Shield (Minister Emerson)             0418 186 625

                                    Danny Donald (Minister Dempsey)                0439 719 116