The first phase of the New Dubbo Bridge project will begin this month, as part of the $220.2 million Newell Highway Upgrade.
The New Dubbo Bridge will provide a second high level river crossing in Dubbo during flood events, to help maintain road network reliability for freight and passenger traffic.
Jointly funded by the Australian and New South Wales governments on an 80:20 basis, works will kick off on a critical new intersection starting this week.
Abergeldie will deliver the new Brisbane Street and Darling Street intersection while Caporn Piling NSW Pty Ltd has been awarded the contract to deliver test piling in the floodplain.
“The start of work on the new intersection of Brisbane and Darling streets is an exciting milestone for the New Dubbo Bridge project,” said NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway.
“Once completed, the New Dubbo Bridge will be a key link in the western NSW road network, improving traffic efficiency along the Newell Highway, reducing traffic congestion for local and commuters, and improving access across the Macquarie River flood plain during flood events.”
Test piling work in the floodplain is expected to commence by October once Caporn Piling has finalised planning and mobilised to the site. The test piling will form part of the final bridge structure.
The work will take approximately five months to complete, weather permitting. Lane closures and reduced speed limits will be in place while work is underway between 7am-6pm Monday to Friday and 8am-1pm on Saturday.
Access to the northern end of Darling Street at the intersection with River Street will be closed with a detour in place.
Plans are being finalised for the upgrade of the Thompson Street and Mitchell Highway intersection, with work expected to start by the end of the year.
“This project will truly be a game-changer for Dubbo, easing congestion for locals and highway travellers alike, and bolstering the connection between east and west during a flood,” added state member for Dubbo Dugald Saunders.