Moving large quantities of freight through Dubbo has become safer with work to strengthen the LH Ford Bridge now complete.
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole said the works meant
Higher Mass Limit (HML) heavy vehicles up to 68 tonnes will now have more direct access through Dubbo.
“This is great news for the freight industry and ensures the important job of getting supplies to and from the Central West can happen as efficiently and safely as possible,” Mr Toole said.
“As a Government, we’re working closely with the freight sector to ensure essential goods get to where they need to go in our communities – especially to hospitals, pharmacies and supermarkets.”
Member for the Dubbo Electorate Dugald Saunders said crews at the LH Ford Bridge have been hard at work since the end of 2018, making the 50-year old bridge stronger, safer and more efficient.
“LH Ford Bridge is an iconic and essential piece of infrastructure in Dubbo, providing a link between the east and west of the town and a safe crossing over the Macquarie River in the event of a flood,” Mr Saunders said.
The work included installing two new supports for the bridge in the Macquarie River and strengthening the 613-metre bridge so it can serve the community well into the future.
During the work, there
was minimal disruption to traffic with only occasional lane or bridge closures.
Final work on the supports, followed by removal of scaffolding, and site equipment will continue in coming weeks.