Major works to deliver a safer and stronger bridge over the Tarwin River West Branch in Leongatha are a step closer to getting underway, thanks to the Australian and Victorian governments.
Minister for Regional Development Kristy McBain and Victorian Minister for Roads and Road Safety Melissa Horne today visited the bridge on Nerenna Road, where detailed design and environmental assessments are now being carried out ahead of construction in 2024.
The major works will strengthen the bridge and reinforce the bridge deck, as well as replace piles on the Leongatha side of the bridge.
Lanes of the bridge will be widened for traffic by replacing the existing barriers with a safer bridge guard fence on the outside of the bridge.
The works will improve travel for drivers on this vital agricultural freight route in South Gippsland, where heavy vehicles make up 16 per cent of all vehicles relying on the bridge.
The Australian and Victorian governments are jointly investing $4.04 million to deliver the works, with $3.23 million provided by the Australian Government and $808,000 by the Victorian Government.
The funding comes as part of the Australian Government's Bridges Renewal Program, under the Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program.
As stated by Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, the Hon Kristy McBain
"Our investment will deliver vital work to strengthen the Nerrena Road bridge over the Tarwin River - making it safer and more reliable for all locals and freight using this road every day."
As stated by Victorian Minister for Roads and Road Safety Melissa Horne
"It's vital we make sure our regional communities stay connected - that's why we're making investments where they're needed most - to keep freight moving and ensure locals can get where they need to go."
As stated by Member for Eastern Victoria Tom McIntosh
"It's great to see this detailed design work now underway to deliver a stronger bridge over the Tarwin River, a key connection used by the freight industry in South Gippsland."
