Bridges
We manage 218 bridges across the region – 191 road bridges and 27 footbridges. These crossings connect communities, support local industries and provide access for residents, visitors and essential services.
Bridge renewal program
Council will soon complete a major nine-year program to replace 153 ageing timber bridges with modern steel and concrete bridges or, where suitable, major culverts.
The program has improved road safety, strengthened resilience to fire and flood, and increased the capacity of the network to carry heavier vehicles. The new structures have a design life of 100 years and are less vulnerable to damage from fire and flooding.
The program has addressed the ageing timber bridges managed by Council, with replacement projects at Marlo, Swifts Creek, Bairnsdale and Mossiface forming the final stage of the road bridge works.
Bridge load limits
Council’s bridge renewal program has removed the need for load restrictions on many bridges, and there are currently no bridges with specific load limits.
New bridges have a 68-tonne load capacity and a 100-year design life. Drivers of heavy vehicles should always follow any posted restrictions and contact Council if they are unsure whether a bridge is suitable for their vehicle.