$300K bridge repairs almost complete

THE reconstructed Pine Creek Bridge is expected to be reopened for public use on Friday, weather permitting, after being closed for major rehabilitation for almost four months.

The original bridge, which was constructed in the early 1900's, was around 33 metres long by four metres wide and served as a major link to the communities of the Pine Creek, Givelda and Electra areas.

Roads and Drainage portfolio spokesman Tony Ricciardi said the council's bridge crew had undertaken the fully council funded $300,000 project which involved the replacement of 80% of the bridge components.

Divisional representative Wayne Honor said farming communities in the area would welcome the reopening of the bridge which is a vital heavy transport link in the movement of farm produce and supplies.

The bridge will remain a single lane width and new guardrails installed on the approaches. Pine Creek Road carries around 350 vehicles per day. With careful maintenance, further major rehabilitation to the bridge should not be required for another 50 years.