The environment has been deemed the biggest winner as the new Grigor Bridge over the Mary River at Conondale opens to motorists three months ahead of schedule.
Member for Glass House, Andrew Powell MP, said protecting the local environment had been a priority throughout the project’s construction.
“The Newman Government is proud to be delivering on its promise to deliver better infrastructure and better planning while protecting the local environment,” Mr Powell said.
“Detailed planning and environment specialists helped to ensure the protection of local fauna during the construction of the new bridge and demolition of the original timber bridge.
“Specialist divers undertook aquatic clearances before the start of in-water activities which included the capture and release of 110 turtles, one endangered Queensland Lungfish and a range of other species.
“Experts were also used to relocate a colony of microbats roosting in the gaps of the decking timbers of the old bridge.”
Mr Powell said completion of the bridge was an exciting milestone for the community, who also played a key role in the project’s success.
“Crews on site have commented on the support locals have shown for this project and their ongoing patience and co-operation despite having construction underway for more than a year,” he said.
“Fortunately the final stage of the project, which included demolition of the old bridge and removal of the sidetrack and landscaping was completed faster than expected.”
The project was funded by state and federal governments under the Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements as part of the $262 million allocated to region to repair damage from natural disasters and flooding in previous years.
