VIDEO: The alignment of the new Avon River rail bridge in Stratford, Victoria, has been unveiled, presenting the local community an opportunity to voice their ideas about the project.
The bridge will replace the current bridge, which is now well over a century old. The new structure will enable the 10 km/h speed limit currently imposed on this section to be lifted, thus improving travel times.
The $95 million project is being overseen by Rail Projects Victoria (RPV) as part of the $530 million Gippsland Line Upgrade, which is jointly funded by the Commonwealth and Victorian governments.
Federal transport minister Darren Chester joined his state counterpart Jacinta Allan to present plans for the alignment of the bridge.
“We’re really excited to unveil the preferred alignment for the new Avon River Bridge, following extensive investigations,” McCormack said.
“A great amount of work has gone into determining the early design of the new bridge, including geotechnical, cultural, environmental and hydrological assessments.”
The bridge will be built on the north side of the old bridge and south of the Princes Highway road bridge. The chosen alignment will reportedly offer the fastest speeds and cause the least disruption during the construction process.
A three-week consultation process will now begin, enabling the community to give feedback on the preferred alignment.
“Stratford locals and residents of the surrounding communities will get a first-hand look at the plans for this much-needed upgrade next week,” Allan said.
“Passengers on the Bairnsdale line will benefit the most from this project, so they will be consulted at every step of the way.”
Rail Projects Victoria has nominated the existing Avon River rail bridge – built in 1888 – for inclusion in the Victorian Heritage Register. Heritage Victoria will present the local community with an opportunity to present feedback on its future.
Construction of the new bridge will begin in 2019, following planning and environmental approvals, and is expected to be completed in early 2021.