The Minns Labor Government is one step closer in delivering the $30 million Marshalls Creek Bridge replacement, with construction of the new bridge foundations to kick off on in late November.
The milestone marks a major step forward in delivering a stronger, safer crossing for the 20,000 vehicles that use the Sturt Highway through Wagga Wagga every day.
Partial demolition on the northern side of the bridge is now complete, paving the way for piling work that will form the new bridge's deep foundations, which has been designed to withstand floods, winds and heavy traffic for many decades to come.
Temporary retaining walls will also be installed this month to protect the road embankment before work begins to dig the bridge supports, known as abutments, at each end of the bridge.
Piling on the northern side of the bridge is expected to be completed by the end of the year, with construction of the first bridge deck to follow. Once that section is complete, traffic will be detoured onto the new structure while the remainder of the existing bridge is demolished.
The Sturt Highway is a vital freight and commuter link between Sydney, Victoria and South Australia, providing local and regional access for businesses, residents and visitors across Wagga Wagga.
During the project, Transport for NSW will maintain traffic flow through the work zone wherever possible to minimise disruption to the local network. For safety, right-hand turns in the work zone will be restricted. Motorists visiting nearby businesses are encouraged to use the Kooringal Road and Norton and Mason Street roundabouts to safely turn and access the businesses in the area.
To stay up to date with project stages and upcoming closures, visit nswroads.work/marshallscreek to subscribe for email and SMS updates.
Minister for Roads and Minister for Regional Transport, Jenny Aitchison said:
"Wagga Wagga is an important regional centre and it's exciting to see this important project powering ahead since we turned the first sod just a few months ago.
"The installation of the temporary pedestrian bridge and new traffic signals has kept the community moving safely while allowing work to progress.
"Once complete, this project will remove a key bottleneck, improve traffic flow, and make it safer for pedestrians and cyclists with new paths on both sides of the bridge."
Member for Wagga Wagga, Dr Joe McGirr said:
"This is a really important project for Wagga Wagga, and it's great to see progress continuing despite the challenges of working on such a busy corridor."
"We know how vital the Sturt Highway is for local businesses, freight operators and families, and I want to thank the community for their patience as this work continues."
"Once complete, the new bridge will make a real difference to safety and connectivity right across the city."
