Gunnedah is one step closer to a second road-over-rail bridge in Gunnedah after the release of detailed design plans.
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Among the activities carried out during the detailed design phase according the latest Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) report were:
- refining the design of the bridge, drainage structures, lighting and landscaping.
- field investigations including survey of utility locations, soil testing and drainage assessments.
- discussions with landowners.
The report continues: “A number of changes have been made during the design phase, to assist the project and minimise impacts on the community. This includes flood mitigation support works within the Blackjack Creek channel.
“The complexity of the project has increased during the development of the design as a result of the work needed on the Barber Street intersection, utility relocations and additional rail protection works.
“These changes have required additional property acquisition, utility adjustments and additional flood mitigation works.”
RMS expects to call for tenders in late 2017 and work on the two-year project to start in early 2018.
Community members are this month invited to view the detailed design and find out more about Gunnedah’s second overpass.
Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson said the NSW Government allocated $4 million this financial year to finalise design and invite construction tenders.
“We are getting closer to a start and the project is in the final stage of planning,” Mr Anderson said.
“This is a very important project for Gunnedah and will improve traffic flow, safety for motorists, will provide an unrestricted heavy vehicle freight route through Gunnedah and replace the existing new street level crossing once complete.
“The overpass will extend west from the Gunnedah Maize Mill on the Oxley Highway and join at Warrabungle Street. It also involves upgrading the Oxley Highway, View Street and South Street roundabout, a new intersection to provide access for businesses into Barber Street from Warrabungle Street and a shared path for cyclists and pedestrians.
“Changes have been made to the design to reduce the impact on the community, which is why we’re asking for residents to have a look at it.
“Additional work has been included to ensure the project has minimal flood impact within the Blackjack Creek channel.
“Community members wanting to speak with the project team can attend one of two drop in sessions at the Gunnedah Smithurst Theatre on Thursday, March 9, from 11am-2pm or 4pm-7pm.
“The designs will also be on display at Gunnedah Shire Council, Shire Library and motor registry from Monday, March 6 to Friday, March 24.
“Roads and Maritime will consider all feedback as the design is finalised and will continue to liaise with property owners during this process. Tenders are expected to be called later this year and work will take about two years to complete,” Mr Anderson said.
