Drivers travelling through Northern New South Wales now have access to the new and improved Pearces Creek Bridge, which the state government says will improve safety and efficiency across a key freight route.
The older bridge has been replaced with a two-lane concrete structure that aims to improve safety for road users, reduce maintenance costs and meet the needs of road users.
“The new Pearces Creek Bridge will provide more efficient heavy vehicle routes and improve safety outcomes for the broader community,” NSW regional transport and roads minister Jenny Aitchison says.
“This road is a key connection point between the Lismore and Ballina shires that is used every day by families, freight workers and tourists and they are now able to cross the creek without load restrictions.”
The $5.24 million project has been funded by the NSW government’s Fixing Country Bridges Program and the federal government’s Bridges Renewal Program.
NSW regional transport and roads parliamentary secretary Anna Watson says the bridge and Eltham Road forms an important route that links farmers and rural industries to adjoining freight networks.
“The NSW government is committed to helping local councils invest in their rural road networks to create and support jobs, drive productivity and keep our regional communities connected,” Watson says.
Lismore City Council mayor Steve Krieg says the new bridge has already improved safety for heavy vehicles and motorists driving across it.
“The new bridge is a much more modern, stronger structure and is meeting the needs of today’s road users,” Krieg says.
“It’s a great example of Lismore and Ballina councils working together cooperatively in the interest of both of our communities.”