The Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads has released a summary business case identifying the best long-term solution for the ageing bridge over Barron River in Kuranda.
The recommendation from the planning study is to build a new bridge on a new alignment, downstream from the existing bridge. A new pathway for pedestrians and bike riders, separated from traffic with a barrier, is recommended to greatly improve safety for vulnerable road users.
The concept layout for the new bridge also includes a turnaround capability on the Kennedy Highway at the top of the Kuranda Range.
The Queensland Government says the existing bridge will be kept safely in service with routine maintenance and testing, and only removed once the new bridge is complete.
“The Barron River Bridge is an important road connecting communities in the Far North, which is why we committed to fixing what Labor left to ruin,” said Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Brent Mickelberg.
“The Crisafulli Government is getting on with the job of fixing the mess left by Labor by delivering generational infrastructure to cross the Barron River that is safe and reliable.
“We welcome the Federal Government’s funding commitment of $245 million to the project and look forward to making further funding announcements at the earliest opportunity.
“Engagement with key stakeholders and local government is already underway, with industry briefings on the project to be held in the next few months.”
For more information, visit www.tmr.qld.gov.au/barronriverbridge.
