Shovels will hit the ground today to upgrade two Moama intersections as part of the jointly funded $323.7 million Echuca-Moama Bridge project, which will improve freight efficiency and deliver better connections for the cross-border communities.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the Echuca-Moama Bridge project would provide a second crossing for residents and visitors to the popular tourist hotspot.
“This new bridge will make it quicker and easier for all road users to travel across the Campaspe and Murray Rivers and connect onto the Murray Valley Highway at Echuca and the Cobb Highway at Moama,” Mr McCormack said.
“In addition to the two intersections, the project includes a new roundabout on the Murray Valley Highway, the upgrade of Warren Street in Echuca, four new flood relief bridges and a new four-lane carriageway.
“Improved travel times, reduced freight operation costs and improved response times for emergency services are just some of the many benefits to be generated by the project.”
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole said the new intersections would improve safety and traffic flow and serve as a key link to the new bridge.
“This is about delivering a smoother, safer and more reliable journey for freight operators and local motorists who cross the Murray River between Moama and Echuca every day,” Mr Toole said.
“The new Echuca-Moama Bridge will replace the existing 142-year-old bridge and is currently under construction. Once complete, it will provide welcome relief for the local community.
“We’re now starting work on the Cobb Highway intersections at Meninya Street and Perricoota Road, which form stage four of the overall project.”
Federal Member for Farrer Sussan Ley said the overall project would be a boost to the local and regional economy.
“Whether it is businesses able to make cross-border deliveries more quickly or the 1,410 jobs to be supported, the flow-on benefits from the upgrade will be felt across the region,” Ms Ley said.
Federal Member for Nicholls Damian Drum MP said 25,000 vehicles a day used the existing river crossing.
“The new intersections will help traffic flow to the new bridge, providing safer and quicker movements for residents, visitors and the freight industry as they move across the Murray River between Moama and Echuca,” Mr Drum said.
The Echuca-Moama Bridge project is being delivered in partnership with Major Road Projects Victoria, which is managing the first three stages of the project, with Transport for NSW delivering the two intersection upgrades at Moama.
Work on the intersections is expected to be completed in mid-2021, weather permitting.
The Echuca-Moama Bridge project has been jointly funded by the Australian ($125.7 million), NSW ($87 million) and Victorian ($111 million) governments.
