Works to commence on vital piece of community infrastructure

Upgrade works will soon commence on the single largest capital works project in Lockyer Valley Regional Council’s 2024-25 Budget.

Lockyer Valley Regional Council received the tick of approval for their funding application under the Australian Government’s former Bridges Renewal Program, now the Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure program (SLRIP), for Mahon Bridge in Carpendale last year, and now works are about to get underway.

Lockyer Valley Regional Council Mayor, Cr Tanya Milligan said the project would replace the existing concrete bridge that was constructed in 2009 and damaged in the 2013 floods.

“After the floods, third party consultants identified several deficiencies in the existing bridge condition, which resulted in several inspections and load rating assessments.

“To mitigate the risk, Council implemented a one-lane traffic arrangement across the bridge, with a 42.5-tonne load limit.

“This funding injection from the Australian Government will mean we will soon welcome a new two-lane concrete bridge of around 40m.

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

Council’s Infrastructure Portfolio Councillor Michael Hagan encourages residents and local businesses to be patient throughout the construction process.

“The increase in traffic along Grantham Scrub Road, Grantham Winwill Road and Harris Street may cause additional noise and traffic for residents along these roads, however the long-term benefit will mean the number of heavy vehicles travelling these roads will be severely reduced,” Cr Hagan said.

From 1 July 2024, the Bridges Renewal Program merged into the SLRIP, which provides funding to local, state and territory governments for eligible projects which enhance access for local communities and facilitate higher productivity vehicle access.

The Australian Government will contribute $4,994,387 in funding through the SLRIP, with Lockyer Valley Council contributing the remaining $1,894,423.

Works are expected to get underway in October 2024, running until June 2025.