The Weir Bridge at Barnsley is now open, providing safer and faster travel for motorists in northern Lake Macquarie.
Member for Hunter Dan Repacholi MP and Lake Macquarie Mayor Kay Fraser opened the $8.6 million bridge today, with the new dual-lane structure replacing the single-lane weir crossing that closed to traffic in early 2021.
Lake Macquarie Mayor Kay Fraser said she was pleased to see the bridge open to the community.
“The old weir crossing was prone to flooding, which regularly disrupted the journey of motorists travelling between Barnsley and Teralba before it was permanently closed due to storm damage,” Cr Fraser said.
“This new bridge will provide a safe and convenient crossing for our community whatever the weather.”
The project also included realignment of The Weir Road to improve road safety, and construction of a 3m-wide shared pathway on the northern side of the bridge, which will support extension of the pathway along the roadway in the future.
Mr Repacholi said the project, which was jointly funded through the Australian Government’s Bridges Renewal Fund and Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program, will improve reliability of the transport network through the area.
“Nothing is more important than ensuring people get home safe and sound at the end of each road trip, whether it’s just a quick run to the local shops or an interstate freight haul.
“That’s why our Government is committed to building a better future for the Hunter Region and for all Australians by delivering infrastructure like The Weir Bridge.”
The Australian Government contributed $4.7 million towards the project, $2.7 million from the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program and $2 million from the Bridges Renewal Program, with Council funding the remaining $3.9 million.
