$36m Murray Bridge road bridge upgrade celebrates Aboriginal cultural heritage amid series of big-ticket developments

A Murray Bridge icon is set for a $36m makeover as part of a suite of big-ticket projects transforming the Murraylands’ economy. See what’s planned.

A $36m upgrade of Murray Bridge’s road bridge is among a series of major works expected to provide a huge boost for the region’s economy.

Transport Department plans for the Bridge Street bridge’s major refurbishment project show it will share stories of the area’s Aboriginal and European heritage.

The project will acknowledge the significance of the river crossing to the Ngarrindjeri people and also acknowledge the role they played in helping build the original bridge.

Culture will be celebrated through commissioned artwork, text on handrails and the ground, signage and native plantings.

Regional Development Australia Murraylands & Riverland chief executive Ben Fee said the project was part of a suite of works spelling “exciting times” for the area.

Murray Bridge’s Road Bridge will get a $36m upgrade. Picture: Mike Burton

Major local projects include Thomas Foods’ new $300m abattoir and the recently completed $45m Bridgeport Hotel upgrade.

Hundreds of new jobs are expected to be created by businesses in the Murraylands Food Alliance and Monarto Zoo is also planning a $40m accommodation project – Wild Africa – and $16.8m visitor centre.

“This is not just sinking money into a main street upgrade – it’s about supporting the economic development of the region,” Mr Fee said.

Thomas Foods International Group Engineering Manager Nekta Nicolaou at the building site for company's new abattoir near Murray Bridge. Picture: Supplied.

“Murray Bridge is on an amazing trajectory with all the investment going on. With all these workers coming in we want to make sure they land somewhere where they can stay.”

Opened in 1879, the bridge was the first in South Australia over the River Murray.

It was adapted for shared road and rail use in 1886, reverting back to road and pedestrian use in 1925.

The department’s refurbishment works include repainting the bridge, repairing and straightening a pier, adding corrosion protection, cleaning and repointing stonework, repairing and replacing handrails and installing new fencing and footpaths. The plans say is likely the

Murray Bridge mayor Brenton Lewis with council CEO Michael Sedgman. Picture: Naomi Jellicoe

Transport Department will seek the flexibility to do construction works for up to 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

However, work happening outside of normal construction hours will be managed to reduce disturbance.

Murray Bridge chief executive Michael Sedgman welcomed the government’s investment.

“We look forward to the other side of the works where we’ll have a bridge which will have a longer useful life,” he said.

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