The Albanese and Minns Labor Governments continue to improve road safety and efficiency in Eden-Monaro, with the new Shingle Hill Way Bridge near Gundaroo officially open, following a $4.4 million upgrade.
The ageing 25-metre bridge was replaced by a new, 45-metre crossing with a 166-tonne load limit and increased lifespan.
Supporting up to eight jobs during construction, the project also included upgrades to approximately 800 metres of road approaching the bridge to improve horizontal alignment.
The new structure has improved flood resilience due to increased bridge height and is designed to better withstand being hit with debris, speeding up the ability to re-open the crossing after floods.
With an increased load capacity, these upgrades will improve freight efficiency and productivity in the region.
The Australian Government contributed $800,000 to this project under the Bridges Renewal Program, with the New South Wales Government investing $3.6 million under the Fixing Country Roads Program.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, and Member for Eden-Monaro, Kristy McBain MP:
"After extreme weather events and increased demand from Gundaroo, Sutton and nearby residents, it was clear that the old Shingle Hill Way Bridge was not fit-for-purpose, which is why we invested $800,000 to get this high-priority project off the ground.
"This is a key road for local businesses in the winery and livestock sectors in particular - which is why this new 45-metre crossing will better connect locals and tourists, while reducing freight costs in the Yass Valley.
"We know how important it is to support local governments deliver essential upgrades on our regional roads, which is why the Albanese Government is investing an additional $50 million towards our new Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program - which will help more projects like this one get off the ground across the country."
Quotes attributable to NSW Minister for Regional Roads and Transport, Jenny Aitchison MP:
"As regional communities in NSW grow, our road networks need to meet current and future demand, which is why the Minns Labor Government has invested $3.6 million towards replacing the Shingle Hill Way Bridge near Gundaroo.
"We want our regional roads to be resilient and reliable, which is why we'll continue to support councils progress projects that create jobs and unlock economic growth and productivity.
"This upgrade has been welcomed by people in Gundaroo and surrounding communities and I know they are looking forward to the lasting benefits this will bring."
Quotes attributable to Yass Valley Council Mayor, Allan McGrath:
"The recent 2022 flooding in the Yass region demonstrated the importance of our bridges, such as the Shingle Hill Way Bridge, as a community resource.
"We really appreciate receiving the funding for this project from both the Federal Government and State Government.
"Council's focus moving forward is to continue replacing low-level crossings within the Yass Valley to improve road and traffic safety, increase flood immunity and to improve access for residents and emergency service vehicles during rain events."
