Media Release: BRIDGE STRENGTHENING WORKS COMPLETED ON TRARALGON-MAFFRA ROAD

FROM THE MINISTER FOR ROADS AND PORTS

DATE: Tuesday, March 20, 2007

BRIDGE STRENGTHENING WORKS COMPLETED ON TRARALGON-MAFFRA ROAD

Minister for Roads and Ports Tim Pallas today announced the completion of two bridge strengthening projects at Wickhams Creek and Fells Creek Bridges on Traralgon-Maffra Road.

Mr Pallas said the works would ensure the road could continue to be used by B-Double trucks servicing local farm, agriculture and forest industries as well as supporting tourism.

Mr Pallas said the Traralgon-Maffra Road was a vital regional link between the rural towns of Maffra and Traralgon.

“Maffra is a major centre for milk processing and raw materials and consequently there is a significant volume of large, heavy vehicles using this route,” Mr Pallas said.

“This route is also used by heavy vehicles for the timber industry to transport materials to the Australian Paper Mills in Maryvale.

"These works will result in improved productivity and efficiency for all freight vehicles.

“The works will also reduce the rate of deterioration of the structure and result in a reduction in maintenance costs.”

Mr Pallas said works on both bridges had included removing the previous kerb and railing, constructing a reinforced concrete deck overlay and installing protective guardrail.

Both projects were completed at a combined cost of just over a $1 million.