CONSTRUCTION has begun on a new bridge on Keanes Road.

The timber bridge will be replaced at a cost of $2.5 million.

The bridge is on the road connecting Rosewood to Ebenezer.

Division 4 Councillor Russell Milligan said the existing 18.5 metre two-span bridge which crosses the Bremer River was constructed in 1940.

“After [an investigation] was conducted in 2016, it was found that the condition of the bridge and its load capacity had deteriorated and as a result of this, council decided to replace it,” he said.

“The re-alignment of the new bridge will allow for the existing bridge to remain in use while the works are carried out.”

The construction phase is expected to take eight months and once the works are complete on the new bridge, the timber bridge will be demolished.

“Improved road geometry on the entry and exits on either side of the bridge will take place, with improved road safety, new barriers and culvert upgrades, the new bridge has been designed with a 100-year life span.”

The timber bridge has been inundated by floodwaters on many occasions.

It is also the site of monitoring equipment for the bureau of Meteorology.

“Due to the nature of the Bremer River floodplain at this location, the existing flood immunity of the road will be maintained to meet current road design standards,” Division 4 Councillor Kate Kunzelmann said said.

“Minor property truncation is required on the western side of the project to assist with road safety and improved sight lines, the new bridge will also be able to carry larger commercial vehicles, which will better service community requirements.”