$3.8 million bridge replacement set to start

Construction of a $3.8 million stronger and wider bridge on David Low Way at Sunrise Beach is set to start on May 18.

The replacement of Orealla Crescent Bridge is a jointly funded Noosa Council and Australian Government project which will improve safety for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.

Infrastructure Services Director Carl Billingham said the work would result in the full closure of David Low Way near Sunrise Beach for about three months.

“With the existing bridge to be demolished and the new bridge built in the same location, closing David Low Way is the safest and most efficient option,” he said.

Mayor Clare Stewart said the project will benefit the local community.

“Once completed, the new bridge will accommodate two lanes of traffic, include two on-road cycle lanes and a protected off-road pedestrian walkway,” Mayor Stewart said.

“We appreciate that such a large project like this will be an inconvenience during construction, but as part of the project, we’ll improve pedestrian access along Orealla Crescent, reseal parts of Orealla Crescent and Tingira Crescent and generally improve the bridge aesthetics,” the Mayor said.

Mr Billingham said residents’ safety was paramount.

“Detours around the works are likely to be in place for at least twelve weeks, weather permitting.

“Access to Clipper Street at David Low Way and the Orealla Crescent underpass will be closed during construction, so we really encourage motorists to consider alternate routes by using the Sunshine Motorway as much as possible,” he said.

Mr Billingham said local traffic will be detoured via a two-way route using the recently rebuilt Tingira Crescent, Sobraon Street, and Vernon Street.

“On-street parking will be removed along the detour route to make it safer for vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians to navigate.

“The detour route cannot accommodate heavy vehicles, and they must access the Sunshine Motorway via Emu Mountain Road and Eenie Creek Road.

BusLink services will, however, operate as normal,” Mr Billingham said.

“We are committed to providing the community with regular updates about the project’s progress and the construction contractor, SGQ, will keep residents and businesses well informed if works are expected to have a direct impact.”

There will be regular updates on the project and detour route on Council's website and  Facebook page .

7 May 2020