THE upgrade of the Purga School Road bridge has reached a major construction milestone ahead of schedule, with bridge deck units now installed as works move into their final phase.
The project is being jointly funded by Ipswich City Council and the Federal Government, with $7.9 million invested overall – including $5 million through the Federal Government’s Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program and the balance funded by council.
Mayor Teresa Harding said the installation of the deck units marked a significant step forward for the long-awaited upgrade.
“This project is a big win for Purga and a great example of what can be achieved when Council and the Federal Government work together,” Mayor Harding said.
“We are replacing the old timber bridge with a modern two-lane concrete structure and widening Purga School Road to two lanes along the 1.6k-kilometre stretch between Morgans Rd and Ipswich-Boonah Rd.
“Reaching this milestone slightly ahead of schedule is a credit to the crews on site and means we’re now well into the final works phase.”
Mayor Harding said the upgrade would improve safety, reliability and flood resilience for the rural community, while supporting Ipswich’s rapid growth, with the city forecast to exceed 500,000 residents by 2046.
Federal Member for Blair Shayne Neumann said the Australian Government’s contribution was focused on delivering practical, long-term infrastructure outcomes.
“Ipswich is one of the fastest-growing regions in the country, and that growth needs to be backed by strong local infrastructure,” Mr Neumann said.
“It’s been fantastic to see the progress made so quickly, and it’s exciting to see the new bridge really starting to take shape.”
