Bridge to receive new lease on life
Date published: 30 May 2017
A project funded through the State Government’s Work for Queensland (W4Q) program will provide much needed work for locals and rehabilitate a bridge on the road to a popular lookout.
Townsville City Council last week awarded a contract to local company CivilPlus Constructions for the design and upgrade of the wooden bridge on Mt Stuart Road.
The $318,000 project will include construction of concrete decking to replace the existing wooden platform, refurbishment of existing beams and abutments, and installation of new railings and road surface on the bridge.
Infrastructure Services Committee chairman Cr Mark Molachino said the work would extend the life of the bridge.
“Mt Stuart is one of our key natural attractions and a great spot for tourists but is also used by recreational users including fitness organisations, bike clubs and rock climbers,” Cr Molachino said.
“The wooden bridge is showing signs of age and requires a structural upgrade to ensure it is capable of supporting heavy loads.
“Currently, the bridge is load limited, which restricts its use by fire trucks and other important service vehicles.
“The upgrade will give the bridge a new lease on life and an increased load limit capacity of up to 44 tonnes.
Council has identified a list of key users of the road, who will be notified directly of the work, which may also involve a short-term closure.
A condition of Work for Queensland funding, the project must be complete by November 30 this year.
