Batemans Bay motorists have been given their first look at the preferred route for the town’s new bridge.
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NSW Transport Minister Andrew Constance said the option identified by the RMS was for a four lane bridge to the west of the current bridge.
The proposal also includes a shared pedestrian and cycle path.
The new design will allow greater access to the Clyde River for taller boats with no impact to motorists.
The preferred option for the bridge sees it reconnect with the Princes Highway at an improved Kings Highway intersection. Access to Wharf Road would then be via Peninsula Drive.
A proposed underpass will provide access to Clyde St, north of the Princes Hwy. Access to Clyde St would be via North Street.
The proposal would see the existing bridge demolished.
Mr Constance said, while he understood the community’s fondness for the current bridge, it was costing up to $1 million per year to maintain.
“The bridge has served the community well, but its capacity is limited and it is causing social and economic impacts due to the lift span and restrictive load limit,” Mr Constance said.
“It’s no secret a new crossing is needed, which is why the NSW Government has provided $300 million towards new bridges across the Clyde River at Batemans Bay and Nelligen.
“The preferred option is to build a bridge with two lanes each way west of the existing crossing, which will be removed when the new structure opens to traffic.”
Mr Constance said after extensive community consultation, the option was chosen as it will have the least impact to motorists during the build and deliver the best outcomes for the community.
“I encourage all members of the community to find out more about the preferred option and give feedback because this bridge will change Batemans Bay for the better.
“It will improve traffic flow at the Kings and Princes Highway intersection and enable vehicles up to 26 metres in length to travel across the Clyde River.
“The next stage of the project will be to further refine the bridge design and develop the environmental assessment and the community will be kept informed.”
Community members can have a say by visiting rms.nsw.gov.au/batemansbaybridge before Friday, September 1.