McConnell Dowell Constructors will build new bridges over both the Murray and Campaspe rivers as well as two new flood relief bridges. The project is intended to reduce traffic volumes on the existing Murray River Bridge and provide better links between the two states at Echuca and Moama.
Federal minister for infrastructure, transport and regional development Michael McCormack said the government is working with Victoria and New South Wales to future-proof the region. "The new bridge will have a single lane in each direction, meeting traffic demands for at least 30 years – but beyond that, the design will allow for additional lanes to be added in the future," he said.
Victorian minister for transport infrastructure Jacinta Allan said: “The new bridge will give drivers an alternative to the existing bridge, which transports around 25,000 vehicles each day - including 1,500 trucks and heavy vehicles, helping to reduce congestion and improve industry productivity.” The new Murray River Crossing is expected to reduce the figure by about 40%.
The McConnell Dowell contract is the third stage of a project that also includes road upgrades.
The US$217 million Echuca-Moama Bridge project is jointly funded by the Federal, Victorian and New South Wales governments, with Stage 3 being delivered by Major Road Projects Victoria.
The announcement of the contractor for the fourth stage – which involves intersection upgrades - will be made in the coming weeks. Stage 2 of the project - the upgrade of Warren Street - is on track to be completed and fully reopened to traffic later this year.
