Major strengthening works have commenced on McCoys Bridge to ensure it can continue to be a vital link for farmers, freight operators, and locals in Northern Victoria for years to come.
McCoys Bridge, which spans the Goulburn River, was impacted by the October 2022 floods and the $8 million project funded by the Allan Labor Government will make the bridge stronger and more resilient. This is our second-largest flood recovery investment after the Bogong High Plains Road landslip remediation.
The heritage listed bridge was built in 1941 and is Victoria's seventh longest bridge - all strengthening work will be done underground to maintain its historical look and feel.
Crews will reinforce the bridge's foundations on the Murray Valley Highway near Kotupna by installing 11-metre-deep reinforced concrete piles on either side of the bridge's ten existing piers. These piles will be connected to the current foundations by underground concrete beams, ensuring stability without altering the bridge's appearance.
This year alone, the Labor Government will invest $964 million into our roads, which includes $770 million for our for road and bridge maintenance, as well as additional funding to clean up flood damage right across the state.
This funding forms part of a larger $6.6 billion investment over a decade that help future proof Victorian roads to ensure they're equipped to cater to the state's rapid growth and withstand the rise in major flooding events.
Strengthening works on McCoys Bridge are expected to be complete by December this year, weather depending.
As stated by the Minister for Roads and Road Safety Melissa Horne
"The floods we've seen over the past few years have caused unprecedented damage to our roads, including McCoy's Bridge - that's why we're investing $8 million to not just repair it, but strengthen the bridge for the long haul."
"These long-term bridge strengthening works will ensure the bridge can continue to connect Northern Victorian towns including Mooroopna, Shepparton, Barmah, Nathalia and Wyuna for years to come."
