Works on a new bridge to span Gavial Creek begin today, with the original 130 year old crossing coming to the end of its life.
The old Gavial Creek Bridge, which is part of Bowlin Road in Port Curtis, will remain open while construction of the new bridge takes place.
Infrastructure Spokesperson, Councillor Tony Williams, said the original bridge had been built in the 1890s.
"It's served the community well for over a century but the old bridge, which has been damaged in floods and cyclones, is now coming to the end of its life," said Cr Williams.
"The new bridge will be built just 10 metres north from the old one, with workers out there from today.
"The first step will be to install a portable, pre-fabricated, truss bridge that will be used as an elevated working platform, from which the new bridge can be built.
"This new concrete bridge will have the ability to accommodate loaded B Double trucks which the current bridge is not able to.
"Building a new bridge isn't a quick or easy job, so we expect the work to be going on until March 2021.
"If you're in that area please exercise caution and obey all signs, and don't park your vehicle at the construction site which will help us avoid delays."
Divisional Councillor Drew Wickerson said he was pleased that the bridge was being replaced.
"I know it's important to a lot of local residents that this access is maintained and improved so it's great to see the work starting today," said Cr Wickerson.
"We thank the community for their patience while we create this new and important piece of infrastructure – the original bridge will remain open throughout so nobody will be cut off."
