Work has begun on the Old Karuah Bridge, with a $6.1 million maintenance program aimed at preserving the structure after nearly 70 years of service to the community.
The NSW Government-funded project will focus on maintaining the bridge’s structural integrity and reducing future repair costs for the Karuah River crossing at Karuah.
Built in 1957, the six-span Pratt Truss bridge replaced an earlier punt ferry and once formed part of the original Pacific Highway route, making it both a transport link and a piece of regional history.
Transport for NSW Executive Director Cassandra Ffrench said the works were essential to ensure the bridge remains safe and functional.
“The Old Karuah Bridge has served the community for nearly 70 years so it’s great to see the old girl receiving some well-deserved tender love and care,” she said.
“Old Karuah Bridge serves as an important landmark for the community. It is not just a link for motorists but also to the history of Port Stephens.
“It is essential to keep Old Karuah Bridge well maintained to ensure it continues to serve the local community now and into the future.”
The maintenance program includes concrete repairs and protective treatments, with work scheduled to continue through to June 2027, weather permitting.
Construction will generally take place between 7am and 6pm on weekdays and 8am to 1pm on Saturdays, although some work may occur outside these hours to align with tidal conditions.
A significant portion of the work will be carried out during low tide, with occasional night and weekend activity required.
Motorists can expect some disruption, with single-lane closures, stop/slow traffic control and a reduced speed limit of 40km/h in place at times.
There may also be temporary channel closures to ensure the safety of workers and waterway users.
Transport for NSW has completed a Review of Environmental Factors outlining potential impacts and mitigation measures for the project.
The agency has thanked the community for its patience as the works are carried out, with the upgrade expected to extend the life of the historic structure and maintain its role in the local transport network.
For more information on this work visit www.livetraffic.com/incident-details/264605 download the Live Traffic NSW app or call 132 701.
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