Tenders closed this week for the construction of a new $3.3 million structure to replace the timber single-lane bridge over the Buchan River at Buchan.
East Gippsland Shire Council, which is managing the project, had requested tenders to undertake the project. Tenders needed to be submitted before midday on Wednesday, October 25.
The Nationals Member for Gippsland Darren Chester secured $1.665 million in Federal Government funding to replace the Buchan River bridge under round three of the Bridges Renewal Program.
The replacement of the bridge is jointly funded with East Gippsland Shire Council.
Mr Chester, who is also Federal Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, worked closely with East Gippsland Shire Council to identify key bridges for replacement.
“The replacement of the Buchan River bridge will deliver better safety outcomes for the local farming community, and also ensure this vital connection between Orbost and Buchan remains open,” Mr Chester said.
“This is an aging timber bridge and it has deteriorated over time. Its decking has gaps that are a safety risk to road users, particularly motorcyclists and cyclists.”
East Gippsland Shire Council Mayor Joe Rettino said the existing single lane timber bridge would be replaced with a two-lane concrete bridge.
“The new structure will increase the bridge’s current load capacity, enabling B-Doubles and other heavy vehicles to safely use it,” Cr Rettino said.
“Replacing this bridge will make a noticeable difference for residents and provide substantial economic and social dividends, making a real difference to the day-to-day lives of locals.”
The Buchan River bridge is the second bridge in East Gippsland to be funded under the Bridges Renewal Program.
The Lindenow-Glenaladale Road bridge at Woodglen has also received financial support from the Federal Government.
The $162.53 million funding toward round three of the Bridges Renewal program is in addition to the $216 million committed under the first two rounds.
