The Queensland government has opened up tenders for the construction of the $28 million Vine Creek Bridges Replacement Project near Mackay.
The project involves the replacement of two double lane bridges on Mackay Slade Point Road with construction expected to start in April 2017.
The tender phase and construction period have been brought forward as part of the Queensland Government’s Accelerated Works Program.
“The Vines Creek Bridges are the sole access for heavy vehicles travelling to and from the Mackay Port, making them a vital link in Mackay’s transport network,” said Member for Mackay Julianne Gilbert in a statement.
“Out of the 15,400 vehicles that travel on Mackay-Slade Point Road between North Mackay and the harbour roundabout each day, 10 per cent of these are commercial vehicles.
“The new bridges will have an increased mass limit which will greatly improve access for heavy vehicles and cater for future growth in the region”
Ms. Gilbert said the design also included the construction of a dedicated footbridge.
The project is expected to be completed in March 2019, weather permitting.