THE Mitchell community welcomed the official opening of the new Sir Thomas Mitchell bridge across the Maranoa River on Saturday, November 9.
The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Warren Truss joined Federal Member for Maranoa Bruce Scott and State Member for Warrego Howard Hobbs, to officially commission the bridge.
The construction was fast-tracked after the existing bridge, built in 1956, suffered significant structural damage during the record flooding in 2012.
The new bridge has been built a few metres downstream from the old site, is 900 millimeters higher and three metres wider, with a dedicated pedestrian crossing.
The bridge is part of the $58 million upgrade to the Warrego Highway between Roma and Mitchell, with the Federal Government providing $44.1 million for the project.
Mr Truss said the new bridge ensured the importance of improving connectivity in South West Queensland and
it would remain passable during floods.
"The Sir Thomas Mitchell bridge is a critical link on the Warrego Highway between Mitchell and Roma and the new crossing will significantly improve this national freight route," Mr Truss said.
He said heavy vehicle users, particularly in the beef industry, were desperate for a wider, safer and more reliable economical access to the Roma Saleyards.
"The Newman government is committed to delivering better planning and infrastructure and this focus has seen us deliver the project $4 million under budget and 12 months ahead of schedule," Mr Hobbs said.
