Works are progressing on two new northbound bridges across Mudgeeraba Creek on the M1 Pacific Motorway in Queensland, with the installation of 400 new bridge decks now underway.
The new bridges are part of the M1 Pacific Motorway - Mudgeeraba to Varsity Lakes upgrade.
“Delivering these two new bridges across the Mudgeeraba Creek is vital to bust congestion and better connect local businesses, communities and motorists in the region.
“The new bridges will be wider and higher to help with traffic flows and better withstand flooding in this low-lying area,” Federal Minister for Population, Cities and Urban Infrastructure Alan Tudge said.
Construction to deliver new northbound lanes between Robina and Mudgeeraba will continue as works on the two bridges are being undertaken.
Queensland Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said: “Works of this size and scale require careful planning and execution to minimise impacts and ensure the safety of workers and motorists.”
Each of the 400 bridge decks weigh approximately 10 tonnes and is about 12 metres in length. In order to safely lift the bridge decks in place, a 110-tonne crawler is required.
“When all the deck units are installed, final concrete and barrier works will be carried out to complete both bridges in what is an exciting milestone for this congestion-busting upgrade,” Federal Member for McPherson Karen Andrews said.
The old bridges across the Mudgeeraba Creek were removed last year, and the new bridges are anticipated to open to traffic in late 2019.
“Upgrading the M1 across the floodplains will mean will mean a more flood resilient and reliable connection for local businesses and communities on this part of the Coast,” State Member for Gaven Meaghan Scanlon said.
The M1 Pacific Motorway - Mudgeeraba to Varsity Lakes upgrade is jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments - each contributing $110 million and $87.5 million respectively - with project completion expected by mid-2020.
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Source: Queensland Government (1, 2); Big Rigs; The National Tribune