The works to replace Silvermine Bridge continue after the foundations were set in place last week despite the rain.
Kempsey Shire Council are replacing the bridge using pre-fabricated components to minimise the time that the crossing is out of action, mindful that some residents are left with Turners Flat Bridge as their only river crossing.
The minor flood that began on Friday 23 September caused a brief closure of Turners Flat Bridge, isolating some community members between Friday afternoon and Saturday evening. During that time the Local Emergency Management Committee, which coordinates flood response including emergency services, was monitoring the specific situation and communicating with impacted residents.
Silvermine is the latest of 56 bridges across the shire set to be replaced across a number of years, with safer, more durable concrete bridges replacing ageing timber bridges.
The Silvermine Bridge replacement works started on 19 September to help the many drivers who use it travel safely and comfortably. In total, Willi Willi Road will be closed between Sherwood Road and Turners Flat Road for 2 months.
Kempsey Shire Council Manager Infrastructure Delivery, Dylan Reeves, said many of the shire's timber bridges need replacing so they are better prepared for floods.
"The replacement of Silvermine Bridge will help us deliver a more resilient shire," said Mr Reeves. "The new bridges will be safer, more durable and able to withstand larger loads."
"We have worked extensively to keep the community informed about the project and especially during the recent flood. We thank the residents for their patience."
The works on Silvermine Bridge are being run by Council after it secured $20.5 million in funding for the bridges replacement project from the NSW Government's Fixing Country Bridges program. Council will also be contributing around 10% of costs from its general fund to the project.
The support for this event is another example of Council's commitment to a community vision that "our people are given the opportunities and infrastructure to build a safe, welcoming and sustainable community."
Please follow traffic signs, use detours and drive to conditions
