The new Komungla Bridge south of Goulburn is now open to traffic, providing a safer two-lane crossing, increased load capacity and one-in-20-year flood resistance.

The new bridge – officially opened by Member for Hume Angus Taylor and Goulburn Mulwaree Mayor Bob Kirk – would boost local communities, businesses and emergency services.

“The new Komungla Bridge is an example of the benefits of the Australian Government’s Bridges Renewal Programme, which upgrades local bridges across the country,” Mr Taylor said.

Mr Taylor said he was pleased to see a longstanding community issue resolved with the completion of the new bridge.

“This is a fantastic outcome for residents and producers along the Currawang Road,” he said.

“The new bridge will increase the load limit from 24 tonnes to 70 tonnes and has been designed to remain accessible even in a one-in-20-year flood, removing the need to detour by up to 180 kilometres.”

Mayor Kirk said the new bridge would be welcomed by Currawang residents with the bridge expected to remove the majority of heavy vehicles off local roads in areas such as Tarago and Lake Bathurst.

“The previous bridge was demolished in 2014 due to safety concerns, I am very pleased to be able to open the new bridge today with Mr Taylor,” Cr Kirk said.

The Australian Government and Goulburn Mulwaree Council jointly funded the project. For further information visit http://investment.infrastructure.gov.au/funding/Bridgesrenewal/Index.aspx.