Construction on the Inland Rail project powers on with a major bridge one step closer to being completed.
The final concrete beam was installed on the Beaconsfield Parade bridge, completing the 145-metre span across the railway line.
The bridge is being built to facilitate the safe passage of double-stacked freight trains for the Inland Rail project, with construction partner McConnell Dowell using a 750-tonne crane to lift the final seven 30-tonne beams into place in January 2024.
In total, 51 concrete beams are incorporated into the bridge – 30 for the vehicle section and 21 beams for the pedestrian section of the bridge. More than 1,200m³ of concrete has been used to construct the bridge so far.
McConnell Dowell Senior Project Engineer, Peter Lacki, said, “We’re excited to reach this milestone within the project with the main bridge structure now complete.”
With the final beams in place, Mr Lacki said work will continue on the barrier installation, connecting the approach ramps and constructing the road base.
Construction began on the bridge in February 2023 and it is expected to open in February 2024 for motorists, cyclists, pedestrians and the large number of tourists who visit Glenrowan.
In Victoria, work is being undertaken at 12 sites, including Glenrowan, to enable double-stacked freight trains to pass safely and ensure everyday products can be delivered faster and more reliably around Australia.
ARTC Victoria and South Australian General Manager Projects, Ed Walker, said completing the bridge span over the rail line is an exciting milestone.
“It’s challenging to build a bridge like this with a working rail line underneath, but the team is doing a terrific job.”
Featured image: Construction continues on the Glenrowan bridge. Image credit: Inland Rail.