Three new bridges are set to open in Yass valley as part of the $5.6 million major timber bridge replacement program.
A new 20 metre steel bridge over Micalong Creek and concrete bridges (both approximately 11 metres in length) on Nottingham Road, Wee Jasper, and Horseshoe Road, Mullion, form part of the 11 bridges that were replaced.
The council secured just under $2.5 million in NSW Government funding under the Restart NSW Fixing Country Roads Program.
The remaining cost of the project has been funded by the council.
"These three new dual lane bridges will future proof the road network and remove load limits, assisting our farmers in the transportation of feed and livestock and serving our community well, for years to come," said Yass Valley Mayor, Rowena Abbey.
"We are extremely grateful to the state government for providing this substantial grant funding. Council would not have been in the position to undertake such significant upgrades without this support."
Goulburn MP Wendy Tuckerman said Restart NSW Fixing Country Roads Program aims to repair and upgrade local and regional roads to facilitate the movement of freight while supporting jobs, growth and economic productivity.
"Facilitating the movement of freight, to key freight hubs and state roads helps bring costs down, benefiting consumers when purchasing goods at their local supermarket.
"That's why this government is committed to removing pinch points and reducing costs for industry through targeted investments into our regional road network.
"The viability of theses bridges over the long term was also at risk, so this is a very worthwhile project that the government is proud to support."
Anthony Cathles, President of Wee Jasper Community Association, said the community has welcomed the replacement bridges over Micalong Creek and on Nottingham Road.
"These bridges and roads to our remote community of Wee Jasper are critical for all our local residents and tourists travelling to this beautiful area," Mr Cathles said.
"During catastrophic fire danger periods, like the ones we have recently experienced, a bolt of lightning could easily start a bush fire. It is very important for the NSW Rural Fire Service to be able to get access to a fire quickly and improving our remote roads and bridges, assists us in putting the fire out."
Three new bridges will be officially opened by Member for Goulburn, Wendy Tuckerman and Yass Valley mayor, Rowena Abbey on Wednesday, March 11.
