The first bridge beams have been installed over the water of the Upper Spencer Gulf as part of the Joy Baluch AM Bridge Duplication, marking a major milestone in the $200 million project.
Work to install all bridge beams across land is almost complete, and the installation of the first bridge beams over the gulf brings the project one step closer to improving road safety and efficiency for all users of this critical road link.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Barnaby Joyce said the project is another example of Federal Member for Grey Rowan Ramsey's determination to deliver for people of the Port Augusta region.
"By investing in projects such as this, the Federal Government is making 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 Premier Steven Marshall said the latest developments marked an important milestone for the project, which is supporting 114 jobs per year during construction.
"The project underscores the Federal and State governments' commitment to investing in regional South Australia," Premier Marshall said.
"We're thrilled by the work that has been completed so far as part of this hugely important project, which will improve road safety, freight connectivity and the resilience of this road link.
"The Morrison and Marshall governments understand the importance of the Joy Baluch AM Bridge as a vital link in the National Land Transport Network and this project will ensure a safer passage for all commuter, commercial and freight vehicles, as well as pedestrians and cyclists."
South Australian Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Corey Wingard said the latest project milestones showed the government is building what matters for regional South Australia.
"The installation of the very first bridge beam over the Upper Spencer Gulf is particularly significant, as we can see this crucial new structure coming to life," Minister Wingard said.
"Once the bridge beams have been installed, we will begin to see the construction of the bridge deck, which will be another important development.
"Ultimately, projects like this will not only improve the efficiency of our road network, but also help to make our country roads safer and save lives.
"The bridge is an important link in the National Land Transport Network at Port Augusta, providing access across the Spencer Gulf for commuter, commercial and freight vehicles in the northern region of South Australia."
Since the start of major construction in October 2020, the following milestones have been achieved:
- 100 per cent of land piles complete
- 92 per cent of marine piles complete
- 62 per cent of headstocks (concrete piers placed on top of the piles to support the beams that will form the bridge deck) installed
- Adelaide abutment is complete
- Shared-use path construction is underway; and
- Land-based bridge beams almost all installed.
Federal Member for Grey Rowan Ramsey said he was sorry to miss the Premier's visit as he was in Canberra on Parliamentary duties.
"This is a huge project for Port Augusta and the region and will provide a vital safety valve connecting the east and the west of the city," Mr Ramsey said.
"The close working relationship between our State and Federal governments has led to an unprecedented investment in SA roads on the back of an 80:20 funding split between us.
"It's not just the duplication of the bridge and the works at Port Wakefield, major road networks in Grey from one end to the other are being brought into the 21st century on the back of these historic agreements.
"I particularly thank State Member for Stuart Dan van Holst Pellekaan for working so closely with me to get the bridge project over the line."
The Joy Baluch AM Bridge Project is jointly funded by the Australian Government committing $160 million and the South Australian Government $40 million.
