June 30, 2021
The speed limit on an 85-year-old bridge on Kilkivan-Tansey Road has been reduced to 60km/h – and traffic reduced to one lane – to ensure motorists’ safety.
Wide Bay Creek Bridge is located about 3km west of Kilkivan, and was the subject of a Question On Notice by Member for Nanango Deb Frecklington in March this year.
At the time, Mrs Frecklington asked Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey when would funding be made available to upgrade the bridge, given the fact that planning for it was listed in the Queensland Transport and Roads Investment Program (QTRIP).
Mr Bailey replied the planning – for which $250,000 had been allocated – was anticipated to be completed in 2022.
“Funding for detailed design and construction of the bridge would need to be considered against competing statewide priorities,” he said at the time.
On Monday, Mr Bailey said the decision to lower the speed limit on Wide Bay Creek Bridge had been made after a structural inspection.
“As part of our ongoing maintenance, bridges are regularly inspected across the State-controlled road network to ensure the safety of all motorists,” Mr Bailey said.
“Advance warning signs such as ‘Road Narrows – One Lane – Reduce Speed’, ‘No Overtaking On Bridge’ and ‘Give Way One Lane’ will be in place on both approaches to alert motorists of the changed conditions.
“I urge motorists to observe the 60km/h speed limits and all signs when approaching the bridge.
“We are investigating upgrade options as part of our planning for future works, which will assist us to identify the appropriate treatment option.
“In the meantime, these restrictions will ensure the bridge remains safe and operational.
“I thank the community in advance for their patience and cooperation while these changes are implemented and treatment options are determined.”
A Department of Transport and Main Road spokesperson said 15.5 per cent of the annual average daily traffic of 580 vehicles on this stretch of Kilkivan-Tansey Road were heavy vehicles.
