The Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA) is planning to construct a new overpass of the railway line at Molong on the Mitchell Highway. This project is fully funded by the Australian Government under AusLink, the National Land Transport Plan.
Background
The existing narrow bridge, built in 1938, is not adequate for higher mass limit vehicles.
The Australian Government is providing $4 million to construct a new overpass of the railway line at Molong, on the Mitchell Highway. From 1 January 2009, the Mitchell Highway will be part of a designated higher mass limit route.
This project is part of the Australian Government’s $30 million package to strengthen/replace various bridges on the AusLink National Network to accommodate future higher mass vehicles. The Mitchell Highway is part of the AusLink route between Penrith and Dubbo.
Higher mass limit vehicles have the capacity to carry higher weights than normal heavy vehicles, provided they can comply with stringent operating conditions. For more information on higher mass limits vehicles go to www.rta.nsw.gov.au/heavyvehicles.
Project features
Increase the structural capacity to cater for higher mass limit vehicles.
Remove the existing tight corners either side of the old bridge to improve the alignment.
Widen the structure to improve safety for all road users.
Upgrade a number of intersections with protected turn lanes or localised widening.
Detailed design will be finalised following this community consultation phase.
Construction is currently scheduled to start early to mid 2008, with completion by the end of 2008.
Current activities
The RTA is currently acquiring land, relocating public utilities and discussing the future role of the existing bridge with Council and rail agencies.
Community consultation
The RTA is working with residents, businesses, road users and other stakeholders to improve the project and minimise impacts on the community.
A display, in the foyer of Cabonne Shire Council chambers, 99-101 Bank Street, Molong will be available until Friday 22 February 2008.
Members of the project team will be available to speak with the public at the display on Friday 15 February from 10am to 2pm. Your comments and suggestions are welcome.
Have your say
A have your say form is attached to this update. Written comments need to be received by 22 February 2008.
For further information
If you would like further information or to make comment:
Phone the project manager, Dion Killiby on (02) 6393 5433 or 0428 633 020.
Send written comments to:
Molong overpass project
RTA
PO Box 334
PARKES NSW 2870
Email: molongoverpass@rta.nsw.gov,au
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