The recently finished $4.5 million Greens Bridge, just outside of Nimbin, was officially opened today, marking the conclusion of a substantial enhancement initiative designed to improve road transportation.
Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg officially opened the newly constructed Greens Bridge on Stoney Chute Road, a project funded by $4,395,000 from the NSW Government's Fixing Country Bridges Program and $140,000 from Council.
The project provided employment opportunities to more than 30 local subcontractors, suppliers and workers during construction.
The original bridge, constructed in 1930, had undergone multiple significant repairs over the years and its deteriorating condition meant it required a complete replacement due to safety concerns.
The aged wooden bridge has been replaced with a modern concrete structure spanning 38-metres across Goolmangar Creek.
Designed with bored pier foundations, the new bridge ensures unobstructed clearance and boasts a deck height elevated by 1.2 metres compared to its predecessor. This will help mitigate risks of inundation, like those experienced during the 2022 flooding event.
Following completion of the new connection, the old bridge was demolished by Quickway Constructions Pty Ltd, and the creek banks also underwent rehabilitation works. The project also includes the installation of a new Flood Monitoring Station.
Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg said: "This bridge is a vital link between Kyogle and Nimbin, ensuring our farmers can get their produce to market and improving connectivity across our Local Government Area.
"Importantly, we've 'built back better' by enhancing the bridge's resilience to flooding through raising the deck level.
"Our commitment to strategic enhancements underscores our dedication to sustainable and durable infrastructure. This project not only strengthens the bridge but also symbolises progress toward a more robust and connected region.
"The local community is delighted to have this new infrastructure in place. It stands as a testament to collaborative efforts and provides tangible benefits for residents and businesses alike," he said.
NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison said: "The NSW Labor Government is committed to supporting rural councils to invest in their road networks, creating jobs and bolstering productivity while maintaining vital connections within regional communities.
"It is also great to witness Lismore's bridge and road infrastructure being fortified against potential floods and fires.
"While the previous timber bridge served its purpose over the years, its repeated repairs signaled the need for a change.
"With the new concrete Greens Bridge, the community gains better safety and connectivity during emergencies, as well as improved reliability for heavy vehicle traffic, leading to enhanced transport efficiencies"
State Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said: "It is great to be in Nimbin for yet another opening of a key road project.
"And it is great to see a new 'built back better' Greens Bridge so that locals and tourists can have better access. It just makes life a wee bit easier all round.
"Bridges, roads, culverts and infrastructure are so important to country communities and any improvement, especially a more modern and durable bridge, is a cause for celebration."
