An older-style timber bridge that crosses the Little River south of Geurie is set to benefit from a share of $86 million being invested into road, bridge and truck wash projects across regional parts of the state.
Member for the Dubbo electorate Dugald Saunders has announced that $2.716 million will be provided to Dubbo Regional Council to replace the Terrabella Bridge as part of the NSW Government’s Fixing Country Roads program.
The funding will complement $700,000 pledged to council for the project by the Federal Government.
“This is an important project for the agricultural sector as it will improve freight connectivity, particularly for farmers and stock producers in this area,” Mr Saunders said.
“For a long time now producers have been calling for a B-Double rated bridge in this area and I am delighted to be making this a reality.
“This project will deliver important benefits for all road users – from passengers to producers and from heavy truck drivers to the local school bus.”
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole said the NSW Government is committed to improving the road network in rural parts of the state.
“Fixing Country Roads has already helped regional NSW councils deliver more than 300 projects to date, and I know the Terrabella Bridge project will ultimately contribute to the growth of the local economy by improving freight delivery, journey times and safety outcomes,” Minister Toole said.
“These projects are important in supporting the regional freight task in NSW, which is expected to increase by 12 percent to 286 million tonnes by 2036.”
Dubbo Regional Council mayor Ben Shields has welcomed the funding.
“Terrabella Bridge is a narrow and outdated wooden bridge that no longer meets the needs of residents in the area. I welcome the funding from the NSW Government to bring this bridge up to modern standards,” he said.