THE Ipswich City Council has committed $4.65 million to fund the replacement of two local timber bridges, this financial year.
Tom Kerle Bridge on Hiddenvale Road, Calvert will be replaced at a cost of $2.6 million and $2.05 million will be spent on a new bridge on Keanes Road at Ebenezer.
Cr Russell Milligan said the 18.5 metre two-span Keanes Road timber bridge was constructed in 1940 and crosses the Bremer River.
“The bridge condition and load capacity have been deteriorating and after a 2016 report, Ipswich City Council decided to replace it,” he said.
“Construction will take six to eight months.”
However, he said an exact start date for the project has yet to be set.
“Re-alignment of the new bridge allows for the existing bridge to remain in use while work is carried out.
“When the new bridge is opened, the old bridge will be demolished.”
The works will also include improved entry and exits to the bridge, improved road safety with new barriers and culvert upgrades.
“The new bridge has been designed with a 100-year life span,” Cr Milligan said.
Cr Kate Kunzelmann added that this is a win for the community.
“This site has significance as a flood forecast location for both the Bureau of Meteorology and the South East Queensland Water monitoring equipment.
“Minor relocation of this equipment is expected as part of the bridge replacement.
“A minor property truncation is required on the western side of the project to assist with road safety and improved sight lines.
“The new bridge will be able to carry larger commercial vehicles, which will better service community requirements.”
THE Tom Kerle Bridge on Hiddenvale Road at Calvert has been identified by council as in poor condition and costly to maintain.
“Council decided on a full replacement of the four-span 27.6m timber bridge which crosses the Western Creek,” Cr Sheila Ireland said.
“The new structure is being constructed adjacent to the existing bridge and full road closure will not be necessary.
“The date of construction has yet to be determined but will last six to eight months.”
Cr Jacob Madsen added that the new bridge will be two lanes with shared pedestrian access on the northern side.
“It has been designed to carry heavy vehicles,” he said.
“The new inland rail project is likely to have some impact on the area and as these works will be completed ahead of that, it will assist with future heavy vehicle access during the construction phase.”
