Pearces Creek Bridge Opens to Modernise Local Infrastructure
The Ballina Shire Council and the Lismore City Council have announced the inauguration of the newly constructed Pearces Creek Bridge.
This new infrastructure replaces an older, wooden bridge with a modern, two-lane concrete structure, catering to the current and future demands of road users.
Enhancements brought by the new bridge include heightened safety measures for those traveling on the road, a reduction in the need for frequent maintenance, and an expansion from a single lane to a dual-lane passage.
The completion of this project, valued at $5.24 million, was made possible through funding from the New South Wales Government’s Fixing Country Bridges Program and the Federal Government’s Bridges Renewal Program.
Positioned at the juncture of the Lismore City and Ballina Shire local government areas, the Pearces Creek Bridge serves as a vital link within the regional road network.
With the introduction of this new structure, previous load limit restrictions, which were essential for the conservation of the aging timber bridge, have now been lifted, facilitating smoother and more efficient transportation across this essential conduit.
Quotes attributed to Hon Jenny Aitchison, Member for Maitland, NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads:
The new Pearces Creek Bridge will provide more efficient heavy vehicles routes and improved safety outcomes for the broader community.
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.
Quotes attributed to Ms Anna Watson, Member for Shellharbour, Parliamentary Secretary for Regional Transport and Roads:
Eltham Road is an important local haulage route linking farming 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.
Quotes attributed to Sharon Cadwallader, Mayor Ballina Shire Council:
The previous timber Pearces Creek Bridge served the community well for many years, but it reached the end of its life and was no longer meeting the needs of our local community.
Ballina Shire Council worked hard to secure $5.24 million from the federal and state governments to replace this important community asset.
Quotes attributed to Steve Krieg, Mayor Lismore City Council:
The new Pearces Creek Bridge has already greatly improved safety for heavy vehicles, school buses and motorists driving across the Creek.
The new bridge is a much more modern, stronger structure and is meeting the needs of today’s road users. It is a great example of Lismore and Ballina councils working together cooperatively in the interest of both of our communities.
For more information visit ballina.nsw.gov.au or telephone Ballina Shire Council on 1300 864 444.
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