Community members promote Port River Bridges

A group of passionate Port Adelaide community representatives and members of local organisations has been formed in partnership with the Department for Transport, Energy and Infrastructure (DTEI) to promote Stages 2 and 3 of the Port River Expressway project, the road and rail bridges across the Port River.

The Community Liaison Group (CLG) consists of representatives from diverse organisations such as the City of Port Adelaide Enfield, Todd Street Business Chambers, Port Adelaide Sailing Club and the Port Adelaide Residents Environment Protection Group to represent the broadest possible range of community and business interests and views.

Members of the CLG are extremely enthusiastic about the project and the role of the group, which provides a forum for discussion and exchange of information on topics related to the detailed design and construction phases of the project.

President of the Port Adelaide Enfield Chamber of Commerce, Cath Duncan, said the CLG provides a great forum for community groups and organisations to present their views on the project.

"The Port Adelaide Enfield Chamber of Commerce has been actively lobbying for these opening bridges since 2001 and sees the construction of the bridges and road/rail links signify the beginning of the rebuilding and restoration of the Port's previous status as a strong, lively, economic powerhouse of Adelaide. The Chamber is proud to represent the views of its members on the CLG," she said.

Members meet monthly to promote the project through the group, which acts as a two-way communication link between the contractors, members and their respective organisations and community ties.

Chair of the CLG, Fij Miller, said the CLG is a positive method of facilitating information to the community in relation to the project.

"The CLG is an excellent opportunity for community involvement in one of the department's biggest current transport projects. It will enable the local community to have easy access to up-to-date information about the progress of the construction and also allow input from locals as appropriate," she said.

Abigroup Contractors Pty Ltd was awarded the contract in early July 2005 to design, construct and maintain the road and rail bridges across the Port River (Stages 2 and 3 of the Port River Expressway).

Local businesses and Government Agencies directly affected by the project are also being addressed through key stakeholder groups, which are being managed by Abigroup.

Foundation piling in the river will start in November 2005. The rail bridge is scheduled for completion in mid 2007 with the road bridge expected to be complete in late 2007.

Funding for the $178 million Port River Expressway road and rail bridges is a joint contribution between the State and Australian governments under the AusLink Investment Program.

Media contact:
Nicki Stewart, Principal Media Adviser, tel 8204 8203 or mob 0417 803 977