Early works have begun on the New Dubbo Bridge project, with critical work on a new intersection commencing as part of phase one.
This work is an initial part of the $220.2 million Newell Highway Upgrade – Dubbo Bridge project that is jointly funded by the Federal and New South Wales Governments on an 80:20 basis.
New South Wales Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Sam Farraway, said the start of work on the new intersection of Brisbane and Darling streets is an exciting milestone for the New Dubbo Bridge project.
“The project represents a major investment in western New South Wales and will support around 290 direct and 1,200 indirect jobs during the construction phase,” Mr Farraway said.
“Once completed, the New Dubbo Bridge will be a key link in the western New South Wales road network, improving traffic efficiency along the Newell Highway, reducing traffic congestion for local and commuters, and improving access across the Macquarie River floodplain during flood events.”
Abergeldie will deliver the new Brisbane Street and Darling Street intersection while Caporn Piling NSW has been awarded the contract to deliver test piling in the floodplain.
Test piling work in the floodplain is expected to commence by October 2022 once Caporn Piling has finalised planning and mobilised to the site.
The test piling will form part of the final bridge structure and is key to the delivery of the project.
New South Wales Member for Dubbo, Dugald Saunders, said these works mark the start of a significant phase for the New Dubbo Bridge project, ahead of the awarding of the main contract before the end of 2022.
“There’s no doubt this project has garnered a lot of community interest, and it’s also been the subject of unprecedented consultation,” Mr Saunders said.
“This project will truly be a game-changer for Dubbo, easing congestion for locals and highway travellers alike, and bolstering the connection between east and west during a flood.”
The work will take approximately five months to complete, weather permitting. Lane closures and reduced speed limits will be in place while work is underway.
Plans are being finalised for the upgrade of the Thompson Street and Mitchell Highway intersection, with work expected to start by the end of 2022, weather permitting.
Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister, Catherine King, said this project will make a major difference to the day-to-day lives of commuters, by easing congestion and ensuring reliable access through Dubbo at all times, including during flood events.
“This new Dubbo Bridge project will create jobs, build opportunity and unlock economic growth to the benefit of the local community and will be a valuable transport link to the wider region,” Ms King said.
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