The Federal Government is providing almost $800,000 to replace three timber bridges in far East Gippsland.
The Nationals Member for Gippsland Darren Chester said the government had provided $790,000 under the Roads to Recovery program to construct a new concrete and steel bridge at Genoa and two more at Bonang.
“The timber bridge on Toms Track at Genoa is East Gippsland Shire Council’s number one priority for replacement. The current load limit means B-double trucks can’t use it,” Mr Chester said.
Mr Chester said he was pleased local company Tambo Constructions, based at Swan Reach, had been awarded the contracts for all three bridges.
“Tambo Constructions will undertake the works at Genoa and also replace two timber bridges on Waterhole Gully Road in Bonang. One of the bridges is at Waterhole Creek, the other is at Jingalalla River,” Mr Chester said.
“I’m always pleased to see local companies secure these contracts, providing a significant funding injection for the East Gippsland economy and supporting local jobs.”
East Gippsland Shire is contributing $90,000 toward the bridge at Genoa, the Federal Government is providing $240,000. The Federal Government is fully funding the two bridges at Bonang.
Side tracks will be built to allow traffic to pass while construction is underway at the three sites, if needed. East Gippsland Shire Council will keep nearby landowners informed as the projects progress.
“These projects will improve safety for all road users and will better connect communities,” Mr Chester said.
“Importantly, the new bridges will have a higher load limit and will be able to accommodate B-double trucks, which will boost productivity and efficiency for businesses that rely on heavy vehicles.”
Together with East Gippsland Shire Council, the Federal Government funded the construction of the $2.4 million Lindenow-Glenaladale Road bridge at Woodglen and the $1.9 million Buchan River bridge.
The Federal Government also provided the bulk of funding for the $560,000 rejuvenation of Lakes Entrance’s Cunninghame Arm footbridge and is contributing $590,000 to the extension of Giles Street, Bairnsdale, between Dalmahoy Street to Bosworth Road, incorporating a new three-span concrete bridge over Magee’s Gully.
