The Minns Labor Government is another step closer to delivering a safer, smoother journey through Wagga Wagga, with piling work now complete on the $30 million Marshalls Creek Bridge replacement.
The milestone marks the completion of the new bridge’s foundations, paving the way for the next stage of above-ground construction and bringing the project closer to completion in mid-2027.
The Minns Labor Government is replacing the existing two-lane bridge on the Sturt Highway with a new four-lane structure, removing a long-standing bottleneck and improving journeys for the more than 20,000 motorists who use this busy transport corridor every day.
Once complete, the new bridge will extend the continuous four-lane section of the Sturt Highway through Wagga Wagga to around 4.5 kilometres, improving traffic flow, reducing congestion and providing safer connections for pedestrians and cyclists.
The latest six-week piling program focused on the upstream side of the bridge, which will carry westbound traffic.
It follows the completion of piling on the downstream side earlier this year, allowing the new eastbound section to open to traffic in August.
With piling now complete, crews will move to installing headstocks and concrete girders, which will support the new bridge deck.
Further work will include construction of the bridge deck, adjustments to approach roads, new signage and landscaping.
The foundations consist of large steel and reinforced concrete piles installed deep into the ground, designed to support the bridge and withstand heavy traffic and flood events for decades to come.
The project remains on track for completion in mid-2027, weather permitting.
Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison said:
“The Minns Labor Government is getting on with the job of delivering the infrastructure regional communities need, and this latest milestone is another important step forward for Wagga Wagga.
“We know how frustrating bottlenecks can be for motorists, particularly on busy routes like the Sturt Highway, which is why we’re investing $30 million to deliver a safer, wider and more efficient crossing.
“With the foundations now complete and the first section already carrying traffic, locals can see real progress on a project that will make a lasting difference to their daily journeys.
“We’re building better connected regional communities by investing in infrastructure that improves safety, keeps people moving and supports the needs of growing communities.”
Independent Member for Wagga Wagga Dr Joe McGirr said:
“Locals have long recognised the need to improve this section of the Sturt Highway, and it’s encouraging to see another major milestone reached.
“With more than 20,000 vehicles travelling this route every day, replacing the narrow two-lane bridge will make a real difference to how people move around our city.
“The opening of the first section in August was a welcome step forward, and completing the foundations brings us closer to seeing the full benefits of this important upgrade.
“I thank residents, businesses and motorists for their continued patience, particularly during the noisy piling works, as we work towards a safer and more reliable crossing for Wagga Wagga.”
