The following Media Release was issue this afternoon by The Hon. Jack Dempsey MP, Member for Bundaberg & Minister for Police & Emergency Services….
The Tallon Bridge will temporarily reopen tonight easing traffic congestion for Bundaberg residents travelling south from Bourbong Street to North Bundaberg since ex Cycone Oswald hit last week.
State Member for Bundaberg Jack Dempsey said the Australian Defence Force had installed temporary steel spans across the damaged section as an interim measure until the bridge could be repaired.
“This is one of the city’s most important traffic arteries and it’s great to see Transport and Main Roads working alongside the army to reopen this vital bridge,” Mr Dempsey said.
“This temporary measure will ease congestion at the Burnett Traffic Bridge while engineers continue to work to complete the repairs underneath.
“Only light vehicles such as cars and four-wheel drives, including those with trailers, will be permitted northbound access across the bridge, with police on site to help manage traffic.”
Mr Dempsey also urged motorists to drive to the conditions, observe all signage and obey the reduced speed limit when crossing the bridge.
“Some of the bridge repair works will require a temporary closure, which at this stage is scheduled for Sunday 10 February between 5am and 9am when traffic volumes are lower,” Mr Dempsey said.
“This bridge is a crucial link for Bundaberg, as it was built to carry heavy traffic.
“I’m happy with the progress that has been made on the bridge repairs, and if all goes to plan, we hope to have both lanes of traffic up and running within the next week.”
Mr Emerson said until the repairs were completed, traffic travelling to Bundaberg from the north side would need to use the Burnett Traffic Bridge.
A signed detour in is currently in place in North Bundaberg via One Mile Road, Hanbury and Perry streets and via Queen, Gavegan, Wolca and Perry streets.
Bundaberg Regional Council is again encouraging essential traffic only around these roads and all drivers are urged not to enter into areas where roads are closed.
[ENDS] 7 February 2013
Media contact: Chris McLoughlin 4152 1476 or 0413 485 766