bridge construction, media release, regional nsw, roads,
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Paynes Crossing Bridge Delivers Safer Roads
The new dual-lane concrete Paynes Crossing Bridge has resulted in safer, more reliable and efficient journeys delivered between Cessnock and Singleton.
The $2.44 million project replaced the old single-lane timber bridge on Paynes Crossing Road creating a great example of all three tiers of Government working together to deliver for the local community, with $667,000 from the Federal Government’s Bridges Renewal Program, $668,300 from the NSW Government’s Fixing Country Roads Program, and the Cessnock and Singleton Councils contributing the remainder.
“The replacement bridge almost 12 kilometres north of Wollombi is on an improved alignment and is three metres higher than the old deck to better meet modern safety standards and cope with major storm events as we’ve recently seen,” Mr McCormack said.
“The new dual-lane bridge will not only provide a safer crossing for transporters of livestock and other agricultural products, but will also reduce councils’ maintenance costs as it won’t require the same level of upkeep as the 72-year old bridge.”
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole said the NSW Nationals in Government are delivering projects that help build a safer, stronger regional NSW.
“The old bridge had a six-tonne load limit in place, meaning fire tankers filled with water weren’t able to use it. This new bridge has an open load limit, providing fire crews more reliable and safe access to local communities in times of need and natural disaster,” Mr Toole said.
“It’s also going to allow for a more reliable movement of freight. With the amount of freight moved across NSW expected to increase 12 percent by 2036, we are investing in infrastructure that makes a real difference for generations to come.
“Through our $543 million Fixing Country Roads program, projects like these have unlocked regional job opportunities in construction, while providing upgraded freight routes to save time and deliver smoother, safer and more efficient bridges and roads.
“There are also important safety benefits with all-weather access, better road alignments to the new bridge which has been built to modern standards with wider lane widths.
“On top of delivering a more reliable crossing for freight operators in times of heavy rain, the project has also supported 20 jobs in the local community through the construction phase.”
Cessnock City Mayor Councillor Bob Pynsent welcomed the completion of works, calling it a win for locals and tourists.
“As a result of us working together with our neighbours we’ve provided the community with vital new infrastructure that better serves their needs. The new bridge is three metres higher than the old structure, has two lanes, a longer life span, and the improved alignment makes it safer for drivers. It will benefit locals and visitors who frequent the area,” he said.
“Flooding of the old structure was a genuine concern for residents making it impassable during heavy rain events. The new structure is three metres higher offering more resilience during weather events,” he added.
Singleton Mayor Councillor Sue Moore said the structure’s higher load limit is also of considerable benefit.
“The old bridge was load limited restricting the movement of freight in this area. Importantly, the new bridge means the local RFS tankers can now cross the bridge and provide adequate protection to locals, which is fantastic news,” she said.
ENDS
Read the Media Release here.
© Copyright, Commonwealth of Australia
About Paynes Crossing Bridge
The old single-lane timber bridge at Paynes Crossing deteriorated due to time, additional heavy traffic and storm damage and has been replaced with the new Paynes Crossing Bridge. The new bridge has an improved alignment and is 3 metres higher.
The bridge and roadwork has been designed to provide:
- Two travel lanes
- Long life span and lower maintenance
- Improved road safety
- More flood resilience
- Not load limited
The construction of the upgraded Paynes Crossing Bridge was completed in February 2021.
Monday 12th April 2021 – Media Release
© 2021 Cessnock City Council
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