New Jalbarragup bridge opens to traffic

• $4.3million Jalbarragup bridge opens today

• Safety and amenity improved for motorists

The new $4.3million Jalbarragup traffic bridge over the Blackwood River near Nannup opened today.

Transport Minister Troy Buswell said the concrete, single-lane bridge replaced an adjacent low level floodway on Jalbarragup Road, which was the scene of a double fatality in 2003 when a vehicle was swept away in flood waters.

"The bridge maintains the Brockman Highway, Stacey Road and Jalbarragup Road connection to the Jalbarragup community and saves locals about eight kilometres in travel compared to the sealed Longbottom-Denny roads link," Mr Buswell said.

"With the bushfire season approaching, the new bridge also offers additional cross-river access for firefighters.

"Although this is a local government road, the construction of a new concrete bridge was beyond the capabilities of the Shire of Nannup, so the Liberal-National Government has assisted through a $3.5million contribution and Main Roads' management of the construction.

"The local community have waited for many years for this project, and I am very pleased we have provided significant assistance to make it a reality."

Works began in January this year and were delayed due to heavy winter rains.

Measuring almost 60m long and just more than five metres wide, the bridge was built by Main Roads WA contractor, Bocol Constructions Pty Ltd.

The bridge opening was marked by a small on-site ceremony attended by members of the Jalbarragup community, Nannup Shire staff and councillors and Main Roads South-West staff.

      Fact File

• The State Government funded $3.5million of the project cost through the Main Roads Local Roads Program

Media contact: Jaimee Motion - 9213 6900