Works to replace the John Peterson Bridge over the Boyne River will start today, as crews prepare the site.
The $25 million project is jointly funded through the federal Roads of Strategic Importance initiative, with the Australian Government providing $20 million and the Queensland Government contributing $5 million.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Barnaby Joyce said the new concrete bridge on Mundubbera-Durong Road would feature two lanes, guardrails and safer road approaches.
"The project involves replacing the low-level, timber bridge with a higher, wider and longer concrete bridge on a safer, straighter alignment," the Deputy Prime Minister said.
"The community has called for a replacement bridge and we're pleased to be able to deliver these improved long-term structural and safety benefits.
"The replacement works will improve the bridge's flood immunity to withstand a one-in-100-year flood and maintain network connectivity on this important freight route.
"As well as being built at a higher level, the new bridge will reduce the need for ongoing maintenance and the posted speed limit will be raised at the crossing from 60 km/h to 100 km/h upon completion."
Queensland Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the new bridge would bring peace of mind to locals, delivering a reliable connection over the Boyne River during the wet season.
"The new John Peterson Bridge will be built about 500 metres west of the existing bridge by Queensland Bridge and Civil," Minister Bailey said.
"At this location, the new bridge will be on a straighter and safer alignment, shortening the route for drivers by about 700 metres.
"As part of the upgrade, safety upgrades will be undertaken at Hawkwood and Beeron Roads intersections in addition to tying in the new road alignment.
"It's through projects like this that the Palaszczuk Government is delivering to the regions, as part of our record $25.7 billion road and transport plan."
Queensland Assistant Regional Roads Minister Bruce Saunders said the new bridge would be built while drivers continued to use the existing bridge.
"We want to make sure there is as little disruption to drivers as possible while the new bridge is built," Mr Saunders said.
"Locals will notice construction underway, with traffic controllers in place between 6 am and 6 pm daily.
"Construction is expected to be complete by early-2023 and we thank locals for their patience while this important work is undertaken."
Federal Member for Flynn Ken O'Dowd said the project would help to support local jobs and industry.
"The John Peterson Bridge replacement is an investment in the future of the region," Mr O'Dowd said.
"The replacement bridge will boost community safety, while helping towns like Wondai, Mundubbera, Durong and Gayndah with their blueberry, citrus and Avocado exports to domestic and international markets. Other towns including Emerald, Theodore and Biloela will also receive substantial economic benefits."
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