The new $57 million Sandy Gully Bridge north of Bowen, Queensland, will open three months early, boosting driver safety on the Bruce Highway in the lead-up to Christmas.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Darren Chester said the project was one of standout upgrades happening along the length of the highway, and was an important part of the Australian Government’s action plan to reduce accidents.
“This project is part of the Australian Government’s $6.7 billion 10-year commitment to upgrade the Bruce Highway, which aims to improve safety, flood resilience and capacity along this important national corridor,” said Mr. Chester.
“During Cyclone Debbie, the Bruce Highway was cut off at the old Sandy Gully Bridge, causing additional disruption to affected communities. We are now far better prepared for future wet weather events, with the upgrade improving flood immunity from Euri Creek all the way to the Merinda rail overpass.”
Federal Member for Dawson George Christensen said the upgrade would provide significant safety benefits along the busy tourist route between Bowen and Townsville.
“The highway was realigned to accommodate the new bridge and to straighten curved sections, making it safer for vehicles travelling at high speed,” said Mr. Christensen.
“By widening and raising the height of the road, the realigned sections of the highway are now much safer for motorists and far more reliable for freight vehicles.”
Construction on the Sandy Gully Bridge Upgrade started in September 2016.
The Australian Government committed $46 million and the Queensland Government $11 million to fund the $57 million Bruce Highway – Sandy Gully Bridge Upgrade project. This project forms part of the $8.5 billion, 10-year Bruce Highway Upgrade Program, to which the Australian Government is committing up to $6.7 billion.
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