Fast-tracking reconstruction of White Patch crossing
Published 26 October 2022
Moreton Bay Council is calling for expressions of interest (EOI) for the reconstruction of the White Patch bridge after the old causeway was washed away by flood waters during the February weather event.
Mayor Peter Flannery said the EOI process will enable Council to consider contractors from a shortlist, saving time and money once it goes to tender.
“Council is seeking funding from Queensland Reconstruction Authority (QRA) through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements for the construction of this new bridge,” he said.
“If we are successful in acquiring QRA funding for this project, Council must complete the works within two years of the weather event in align with funding arrangements.
“The EOI allows us to get ducks in a row so if we get funding approval, we can go to tender straight away while simultaneously finalising the detailed design for the project.
“Having a list of contractors who have demonstrated the ability to undertake this work prior to going out to tender saves Council and tenderers time and costs associated with procuring these works and allows for a fast tendering process to expediate the delivery of the new bridge.”
Councillor Brooke Savige (Div 1) said the proposed reconstruction will see the existing temporary crossing - built within 96 hours during the February flood event - removed and replaced with a more flood resilient bridge.
“This crossing has been washed away twice in the past 15 years, leaving the residents of White Patch isolated with no access onto Bribie Island via White Patch Esplanade,” she said.
“This is an important project to improve road access and reliability not only during our wet months but throughout the year, which I hope will prevent this community from being cut off in future weather events.
“The White Patch community showed great community spirit and resilience back in February and I know they will be happy to have a safer crossing in and out of town during flood events once the project is complete.”
Expressions of interest will be open to market until January 2023 with requests for tenders open from March 2023 dependent on State Government Environment approvals and funding.