An historic NSW bridge, which first opened in 1966, is set to receive some maintenance works from later this month.
The Harwood Bridge, which crosses over the Clarence River, is an important link, that has carried millions of tonnes of freight and vehicles over nearly 60 years.
It’s provided an important link for communities on the Clarence River and has been essential for the sugar industry.
Now, it’s set to receive some love, with workers to begin replacing thousands of bolts, repairing gusset plates that connect different elements of the bridge and carrying out repainting of tired sections to make the bridge fit for service for generations to come. These works will begin from January 28.
The original Harwood Bridge opened to traffic on August 20, 1966, replacing vehicular ferries that once took all Pacific Highway traffic from one side of the Clarence River to the other. They were the last vehicular ferries on the Pacific Highway.
That highway traffic has now moved onto the towering dual lane structure beside it, but the old bridge still provides valuable service to Harwood residents and the Clarence sugar industry.
Transport for NSW Regional Director North Anna Zycki said that to keep the 58-year-old structure in top condition, some essential maintenance needed to be carried out.
“We’re aware how important this bridge is during the cane harvest season, so we’re aiming to have work complete by the time that gets under way later this year,” Zycki said.
“The work will take about five months, weather permitting, and we’ll get this work completed as quickly as possible to minimise disruptions to the industry, road and maritime users.
“For the safety of workers and motorists, traffic will be reduced to one lane for the duration of the work.
“There will also be some disruptions while we work on the lift span and vessel owners need to ensure they can pass under the bridge safely with the span in its closed position.
“If they are in doubt they should plan around the lift span closure.
“Transport for NSW thanks motorists for their patience while this work is carried out.”