34 local bridge upgrades boost access across regions

The NSW Government has today announced the first timber bridges that will receive funding through Round Two of the $500 million Fixing Country Bridges program.

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway said $49.25 million has been awarded to replace 34 timber bridges with concrete bridges across 21 Local Government Areas (LGA).

“Our government is getting on with the job of building infrastructure to better withstand extreme weather events and protect our supply chain,” Mr Farraway said.

“That’s why we’re pushing ahead with Round 2A of the Fixing Country Bridges program in LGAs where councils are ready to get work, so these projects can get started.

“We’ll continue to work with councils across the rest of the state, many of which have been hit hard by natural disasters like floods to firm up the remaining bridges.

“With each bridge replaced, we’re opening up more efficient routes for heavy vehicles from freight to the local school bus and RFS tankers.

“Improving access for freight companies helps them to reduce their operational costs, which will ultimately reduce costs for NSW families when buying the goods at the local supermarket.” 

A total of $290 million has already been awarded to councils under Round 1 of Fixing Country Bridges to replace more than 400 timber structures across 54 LGAs across the state.

“After 16 years, the former Labor Government left us with a $30 billion infrastructure backlog, and our Government is building our way forward with a $19.4 billion regional roads and transport infrastructure pipeline,” Mr Farraway said.

The outcome of all other eligible applications submitted in Round 2 of the Fixing Country Bridges Program is expected to be announced towards the end of 2022.