Federation Council has submitted a major funding application to the Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program (SLRIP) for the complete replacement of the Athole Bridge in Morundah.
The bridge, located 30km south-west of the Morundah Township, provides the sole access for a number of farming properties on the north side of the Yanko Creek. Following a detailed structural engineering assessment, the bridge has been deemed to be at the end of its life.
Federation Council Mayor, Cr Cook said Council is moving quickly and decisively to secure the future of this vital piece of infrastructure.
"The assessment clearly indicates that the Athole Bridge needs to be replaced entirely, and we cannot afford to wait," she said.
"This application is a critical step in ensuring our rural producers can continue to operate and that emergency services have unrestricted access."
Council's application to the federally funded SLRIP is for $1,568,000, which represents an 80% contribution towards the estimated total project cost of $2,000,000.
Mayor Cook emphasised the serious impact of the bridge's current condition.
"A load limit of 20 tonnes and a speed restriction of 10 km/h have been imposed, which has severely impacted the ability of our local farming families to move their stock and produce," she said.
"The current width of the bridge, at only 4.5m, also doesn't meet operational needs for modern farming equipment, which is something the replacement will address with a greater span and width."
If the application is successful, Council's contribution of $392,000 will be allocated from the Roads to Recovery Program fund.
"By utilising our Roads to Recovery allocation, we are making a prudent financial decision that prioritises this essential renewal work without a significant detrimental effect on our overall roads renewal program, thanks in part to the increased funding from the recent Special Rate Variation," Mayor Cook said.
The local residents affected by the restrictions have been fully informed and are supportive of Council's actions, modifying their daily practices to ensure the existing structure remains serviceable until its replacement. Load limit and speed restriction signage has been installed to advise all road users of the bridge's limitation.
Mayor Cook said this project is entirely consistent with our community objective to ensure 'Our infrastructure enhances the lives of our community,'".
"Council is hopeful and optimistic about our application and look forward to delivering a fit-for-purpose bridge that serves the community and industry for decades to come."
