After years of debate and delays, the Edmondson Street Bridge has been demolished. Photo: Supplied.
The Edmondson Street Bridge has been destroyed, marking an important step in Inland Rail’s work across the Riverina.
The destruction of the bridge came following years-long debate regarding rail freight through Wagga.
The 1600 km freight route from Brisbane to Melbourne sparked great discussion between Inland Rail stakeholders and Wagga residents, with many calling for the new line to bypass the city.
Due to Inland Rail’s plans to see double-stacked trains pass through the city, the Edmondson Street Bridge needed to be destroyed to build a taller bridge that can cater for the new trains.
The bridge was destroyed last weekend (28 February to 1 March), requiring more than 100 staff to take it down.
According to Inland Rail, two 37-tonne excavators demolished the bridge in three sections. After the deck was removed, crews dismantled the brick abutments, followed by the central brick pier.
Inland Rail Acting Chief Operating Officer Ed Walker said the destruction marked a major milestone in the Albury to Illabo section of the freight line.
Two 37-tonne excavators were required to destroy the bridge. Photo: Supplied.
“The demolition of the Edmondson Street Bridge in Wagga Wagga is a significant construction achievement. We’re now getting on with the job of building a new, modern bridge, and we hope the community enjoys the benefits of the new design,” he said.
“A lot of meticulous planning has gone into the demolition of the Edmondson Street Bridge, and I’d like to commend everyone involved in the safe execution of this process.
“We also extend our thanks to the Wagga Wagga community for their patience and understanding while these important construction activities are carried out.”
Gavin Murphy, general manager of major projects at Maritus, the infrastructure group responsible for delivering the project, applauded the work of everyone involved.
“The successful demolition of the Edmondson Street Bridge is a testament to the depth of experience within the Martinus team,” he said. “Complex, high-intensity possessions like this require months of planning and seamless execution on the ground.
“A total of 346 people worked across 11 sites between Albury and Illabo over the weekend, with zero incidents. Well done to everyone involved.
“This milestone clears the path for construction of a new, modern bridge that will significantly improve safety, accessibility and traffic flow for the Wagga Wagga community.”
