Vital piece of community infrastructure set for an upgrade

A vital piece of community infrastructure is set for an upgrade, all thanks to a funding injection from the Australian Government.

Lockyer Valley Regional Council has received the tick of approval for their recent funding application to the Australian Government’s Bridges Renewal Program (BRP) for Mahon Bridge in Carpendale.

The BRP funds local government projects that upgrade and replace bridges to enhance access for local communities and facilitate higher productivity vehicle access.

The Australian Government will contribute $4,994,387 in funding through the BRP, with Council funding the balance.

Lockyer Valley Regional Council Mayor, Cr Tanya Milligan said the application process was completed in partnership with a range of key stakeholders.

“Mahon Bridge in Carpendale has been impacted by load rating assessments and limits for many years, with significant impacts on local businesses and residents, so we are thrilled to announce the success of this funding application.

“The new bridge will provide preferred heavy vehicle access to one of the major businesses within our region, supporting hundreds of local jobs and contributes to numerous community events.

“Council extends its thanks to Stanbroke, Federal Member Scott Buchholz, Senator Murray Watt, Senator Anthony Chisholm, and the Local Government Association of Queensland, all of whom assisted greatly in ensuring this submission was successful.

“Stanbroke proactively partnered with Council on a project that reduces road transport impacts on the local community, and their support has been greatly appreciated,” Mayor Milligan said.

Currently, Mahon Bridge is a two-lane concrete bridge, that consists of three 11-metre spans, crossing Flagstone Creek on Carpendale Road. The bridge has been the subject of several inspections and load rating assessments. To mitigate the risk, Council has implemented a one-lane traffic arrangement across the bridge, with a 23-tonne load limit.

Council’s Infrastructure Portfolio Councillor Janice Holstein said Council was aware of what a vital piece of infrastructure Mahon Bridge is.

“This is a vital connection in the local transport network and is another great example of how a small Council can get things done when we work collaboratively and seek assistance,” Cr Holstein said.

Works are expected to get underway in the next 12 months.