A bridge in northern Tasmania that sees close to a third of its traffic being heavy vehicles, is set to undergo strengthening works to help increase its freight capacity.
The $1.6 million upgrade of Pipers River Bridge will begin this month and is due for completion by November.
Pipers River Bridge is located on Bridport Road in Pipers River in the north-east of Tasmania and connects the towns of Scottsdale, Bridport and George Town.
The strengthening works aim to help ensure the bridge meets the growing needs of modern freight vehicles.
Currently an average of 963 vehicles cross the bridge each day. Of that, about 31 per cent are heavy vehicles.
“The Tasmanian economy continues to grow and improving freight transport infrastructure will ensure that growth continues by providing local job opportunities and better connectivity throughout the state,” said Tasmanian Infrastructure and Transport Minister Michael Ferguson.
“The Pipers River Bridge project continues the program of extensive upgrading of the state’s freight transport network to provide improved access and support the safe and efficient movement of goods around Tasmania.”
The project is jointly funded by the Australian and Tasmanian governments under the $100 million Freight Capacity Upgrade Program, with the Australian Government committing $80 million and the Tasmanian Government $20 million.
Work will involve changed traffic conditions, including reduced speed limits and single lane closures, with delays of up to eight minutes during the working hours of 7am to 6pm Monday to Friday.