The new Slate Quarry Road Bridge provides safer, smoother travel in Meredith.
Final construction works were recently completed on the $2.3 million bridge replacement project, that replaced the old load-limited bridge with a new wider bridge without load restrictions. Works also included new guardrails and improvements to the road approaches and drainage.
The new bridge eliminated a 20km detour for the estimated 25 heavy vehicles per day that travel through the local road network and has also provided emergency services better access for response vehicles to the bushland to the northeast of Meredith in the event of an emergency.
The bridge replacement project was jointly funded by $1,150,000 from Golden Plains Shire Council, and $1,150,000 from the Australian Government’s Bridges Renewal Program.
Mayor Cr Gavin Gamble says the new bridge was a significant partnership project between Council and the Federal Government.
“Slate Quarry Road is the major link between the Midland Highway and Geelong-Ballan Road that connects many local businesses in the area. The new bridge will take pressure off the surrounding road network by allowing heavy vehicles access to another river crossing, and quicker access for emergency vehicles that were previously restricted by the 15-tonne limit.
“Council is pleased to have delivered the safer and wider Slate Quarry Road Bridge, and Council thanks the Australian Government for partnering with us on this significant project.
“Slate Quarry Road Bridge is not the only bridge Council has upgraded this year, with new bridges on Reserve Road and Geggies Road in Rokewood opened, and works nearing completion of the replacement of Paddys Gully Road Bridge in Rokewood Junction.”
Senator the Hon Sarah Henderson said the Morrison Government has committed $640 million to the Bridges Renewal program to 2023.
“This $1.15 million investment in the Slate Quarry Road Bridge by the Morrison Government will improve safety by ensuring emergency service and heavy vehicles have a dedicated route to travel,” Senator Henderson said.
“I congratulate Golden Plains Shire Council on this terrific project which will benefit all road users.”