The Dawson River Bridge upgrade at Cundletown is one step closer to completion, with RMP Abrasive Blasting announced to deliver the final stage of painting and maintenance works.
Nationals Member for Myall Lakes Stephen Bromhead said the NSW Nationals in the state government are investing $3 million to upgrade the bridge on Manning River Drive.
“This is great news for the local community of Cundletown. It’s essential that we keep Dawson River Bridge well maintained to ensure its structural integrity and reduce future maintenance costs,” Mr Bromhead said.
“This single-span steel truss bridge was built 88 years ago to replace a wooden bridge, which formed part of the original route of the Pacific Highway.
“By investing in this important maintenance work, we’re preserving the bridge to ensure it continues to serve as a vital link for the community and freight operators well into the future.”
Nationals Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway said the essential upgrade is now up to its third and final stage, putting the project on track to cross the finish line later this year.
“We’ve already completed maintenance and painting preparation work in May, and it’s now time to apply the finishing touches,” Mr Farraway said.
“Repainting will involve completely enclosing each span on the bridge to remove and dispose of existing paint before applying three new coats of paint. It’s a similar process to work being carried out on the nearby Martin Bridge.
“Once complete, the Cundletown community can be assured the Dawson River Bridge will continue to provide an important community link for many years to come.”
Then final stage of work will start on January 31, and will be carried out from 7am to 6pm, Monday to Saturday. The work will include scaffolding and containment installation, paint blasting, painting and minor repairs to be carried out one on one half of the bridge at a time. Work is expected to be completed in about eight months, weather permitting.
The bridge will remain open with occasional changed traffic conditions including single lane closures and a reduced 40km/h speed limit, which may cause short delays.
