Changing face of Dubbo: What’s ahead for the new bridge?

Work to build the New Dubbo Bridge is forging ahead with the permanent closure of River Street between Brisbane and Bourke streets to take place from the end of August. 
This closure, along with permanent changes at the Whylandra and Thompson streets intersection, is an example of how the $220.2 million project jointly funded by the Australian and NSW governments is changing the town’s road infrastructure for the better.
Transport for NSW Regional Director West Alistair Lunn said crews would be busy with construction at various locations in and around the project footprint throughout August and September.
“Led by our head contractor Abergeldie Complex Infrastructure, current activity includes earthwork, utility relocation and traffic control including barriers to mark temporary lane realignment,” Mr Lunn said.
“We’re continuing to install piles into the floodplain which extends outwards from the river and will soon commence river piling.
“The New Dubbo Bridge will extend along the existing River Street alignment so to allow for the next stage of bridge work and the tie in road work to be carried out, River Street will be permanently closed between Brisbane and Bourke streets from the end of August. 
“We recognise this may cause some temporary inconvenience and we have been consulting with impacted businesses and residents throughout the entire process and are confident we have solutions in place that suit all those affected.”
Alternative routes will be signposted ahead of the closure. 
Once built, the New Dubbo Bridge will connect to River Street at its intersection with Bourke Street, which will also be upgraded as part of the project.
Crews are continuing utility relocation at that intersection. 
Meanwhile, work will start in coming weeks to remove the median strips at the intersection of Whylandra Street and Thompson Street.
To minimise traffic impacts, there will be some night work carried out at this intersection for up to eight nights from 6pm to 7am. This will take place from mid-August.
The piling work which commenced earlier this year will continue to take place between 7am and 6pm on weekdays and from 8am to 1pm on Saturdays, weather permitting.
Other impacts at the various locations include traffic control and reduced speed limits of 40 km/h, concrete barriers in road shoulders and possible footpath and lane closures which will be clearly signposted. 
“The important thing to keep in mind is that while all these moving parts may cause some minor inconveniences, they are temporary,” Mr Lunn said.
“The end result will be a brand new river crossing which will improve traffic congestion and efficiency in Dubbo and enhance access across the Macquarie River during flood events. 
“We thank the community for its patience throughout this process and are excited to share the journey with them as the New Dubbo Bridge takes shape before our eyes.”
For the latest traffic updates call 132 701, visit livetraffic.com or download the app Live Traffic NSW.
More information on the project can be found at nswroads.work/dubbo.