Tenders open for Dixons Long Point crossing, including 100-metre bridge

A concept design for the bridge. Supplied.

By staff writer

Tenders have opened to complete the $29.8 million river crossing at Dixons Long Point northeast of Orange.

"After an extensive EOI process conducted by Mid-Western Regional Council, three respondents have been invited to tender submissions for the design and construction of a bridge across the Macquarie River and approaching roads at Dixons Long Point." said a release from federal MP Andrew Gee's office.

EURO SYNTH POP - FROM ORANGE - DO WHAT

"The development of the river crossing will include early earthworks to gain access to the site, performance of remaining geotechnical investigations and approvals, and the full design and construction of access roads and the bridge."

(L-R): Former resident Noel Fitzgerald, local landowners Rick Burns and Vivien Bowman, Ray Kearns from Mid-Western Regional Council, Andrew Gee MP, and engineering geologist Craig Green. Supplied.

Construction of the Dixons Long Point Crossing is expected to be complete by late 2024.

“In a remarkable piece of engineering, the bridge will be 110.8 metres long, with the bridge deck to sit 13 metres above the natural water level of the Macquarie River," said Gee in the statement.

MORE NEWS: Kate Hook secures No.1 spot on ballot, but will it make one iota of difference?

“With the current crossing closed for an average of 52 days each year, engineers expect the new bridge to be accessible to all vehicles all year round."

He said it would be constructed to withstand one in 20-year flood events.

MORE NEWS: We watched "Sunrise" talk about Orange public toilets, so you don't have to

Tenders close in June, with a contract expected to be awarded in July.

What do you think about the crossing and the timeline? Let us know on our Facebook page.