The new $4.37 million Terrabella Bridge south of Dubbo is officially opened, providing a safer, stronger bridge that will boost freight and rural productivity.
Member for the Dubbo electorate Dugald Saunders said the 101-year-old single lane wooden bridge has been replaced with a dual lane, high-level concrete bridge, removing load limits and helping make the Little River crossing safer and more efficient for freight and the community.
“Bridges like Terrabella are absolutely vital in keeping our rural communities connected,” Mr Saunders said.
“Whether you’re transporting grain, livestock or heavy machinery, or heading into to town for work, education or medical needs, this new bridge means safer journeys for everyone.
“This project was also a fantastic jobs boost with more than 70 workers from Dubbo, Wellington and surrounds contributing to its delivery.”
The old timber bridge will be demolished with materials to be recycled for further commercial use and other timber bridge maintenance.
Minister for Regional Roads and Transport Sam Farraway said the NSW Government is securing a brighter future for regional NSW through its record investment of $19.4 billion into regional roads and transport infrastructure.
“Through our Fixing Country Bridges program we are helping councils to replace hundreds of ageing timber bridges like the Terrabella Bridge, with wider, stronger, more resilient structures, that can carry higher load limits,” Mr Farraway said.
“These new bridges are collectively shaving thousands of kilometres off school bus trips and truck journeys to saleyards, ports and markets.
“Every 100 kilometres out of a truck driver’s way costs over $300. Helping councils build this infrastructure will ultimately drive down costs for families at the cash register.”
The Terrabella Bridge involved all three levels of government with $2,716,000 from the NSW Government’s Fixing Country Roads and $454,000 from its Fixing Country Bridges programs, $700,000 from the Australian Government’s Bridges Renewal program and $500,000 from Dubbo Regional Council.