BRIDGE WORKS GET UNDERWAY ON VITAL FREIGHT ROUTE UPGRADE

Works are getting underway on three Murraylands bridge upgrades aimed at improving freight productivity in regional South Australia and getting more heavy vehicles off the South Eastern Freeway.

This stage of the project involves works to widen and strengthen three road bridges along the route, which are located between Sedan and Murray Bridge, as part of a broader $144.5 million investment package in regional South Australian roads.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Barnaby Joyce said the project is another example of Federal Member for Barker Tony Pasin’s determination to deliver for the people of the region.

“This investment is to make sure the infrastructure South Australians need and deserve is funded and delivered,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

“This is another example of the Federal Liberal and Nationals Government’s record $110 billion infrastructure investment plan in action, helping to connect communities and improve safety, while creating jobs and supporting our economic recovery.”

South Australian Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Corey Wingard said improving this route gives heavy vehicles a viable alternative to using the South Eastern Freeway.

“This is a great result not only for the freight industry but everyone who uses the freeway,” Minister Wingard said.

“The Marshall Government is committed to investing in regional road projects and infrastructure upgrades to improve road safety, as well as helping build regional communities.”

Federal Member for Barker Tony Pasin said strengthening and widening these bridges will increase load bearing and allow for more efficient freight productivity through the area, which will have positive flow-on effects for regional South Australian communities.

“Other works include barrier upgrades at three locations along Ridley Road, at Pine Hut Creek, Boundary Creek and Milendella Creek, which will all start later this year,” Mr Pasin said.

“This important infrastructure investment is part of our plan to provide a boost for the local economy and keep our industries moving so that we continue to rebuild stronger, faster.”

The first stage of the project was completed in early 2021, and involved 39 kilometres of shoulder sealing works between Sturt Highway and Murray Bridge to improve safety along the route.

Works on this current stage commenced late last month, at Reedy Creek Bridge (Mannum Road, north of Murray Bridge), Marne River Bridge and Saunders Creek Bridge (both on Ridley Road, south of Sedan).

The project is expected to support 25 jobs during the construction phase.  All three upgrades are expected to be completed in early 2022, weather permitting.

The Australian and South Australian governments are jointly funding (on an 80:20 split) a $12 million package of works to upgrade the established Regional North-South Freight Route.