Munna Point Bridge to receive new foundations and ‘facelift’
Sunshine Coast Council has announced plans to provide new foundations to the existing Munna Point Bridge on Noosa Parade within the next three years. The foundations will be replaced by a new substructure; however the existing bridge and approach lanes will remain open to pedestrian and vehicular traffic during remedial works.
Sunshine Coast Council has announced plans to provide new foundations to the existing Munna Point Bridge on Noosa Parade within the next three years. The foundations will be replaced by a new substructure; however the existing bridge and approach lanes will remain open to pedestrian and vehicular traffic during remedial works.
The final design is yet to be determined, however, it is expected to include enhanced pedestrian and cycle access and improved aesthetics of the 105 metre long bridge.
The existing foundations, which were built in the 1970’s, have been subject to years of aggressive concrete corrosion – known as alkali silica reaction (ASR) and chloride attack – due to salt water exposure.
The bridge is perfectly safe for use now, although expert, independent engineers’ analyses recommend that work be undertaken within the next three-five years in order to ensure the load limit and functionality of the bridge is not progressively downgraded to the point closure or removal.
Division 11 Councillor Russell Green said that council’s priorities were to ensure that the bridge remains open to traffic and be repaired in a cost efficient and timely manner. Leading professional design and engineering firm, Arup has been charged with the task of formulating the new substructure.
Cr Green added that during this time, council would take the opportunity to improve the bridge’s appearance in consultation with design experts and the community.
“We have engaged the services of local (Tinbeerwah) architectural firm, Bark Design, to work on the aesthetics of the bridge in consultation with our project engineers and design consultants,” he said.
“We will also hold a community and stakeholder workshop to seek feedback from interested parties on some of Arup and Bark’s initial designs in order to ensure that this is a bridge the community will be proud for its 100 year plus lifespan.”
Work has already commenced on the technical aspects of the project with the community and stakeholder workshop expected to take place in early 2011. The bridge substructure will continue to be monitored and tested throughout the life of the project. Once a final design has been agreed, council anticipates construction to commence around May 2012.
Cr Green said that the community would be kept-up-to-date throughout the project.
“We will certainly be keeping the community informed at every stage of this project, including notification of any construction works to surrounding residents and businesses at the appropriate time,” he said.
For project information or to register your interest in participating in the community and stakeholder workshop contact:
Councillor Support Officer for Cr Russell Green (Division 11)
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (07) 5449 5212
Post: Locked Bag 72 Sunshine Coast Mail Centre Q 4560