With a round of applause and cheers from the locals in the Jimbooomba Country Tavern, the Darcy Edmunds Bridge was officially reopened on Thursday night.
Federal member for Wright Scott Buchholz, division 11 councillor Trevina Schwarz and roads and water chairman Phil Pigeon cut the ribbon for the opening of the bridge with the first cars slowly but surely crossing at about 5pm.
There were plenty of horns tooting at the excitement of being the first cars to cross.
The bridge has been out of action since late January which has caused pain to motorists and local businesses.
In addition to the upgraded bridge, a turning lane into Cusack Lane has been added.
Councillor Trevina Schwarz said she was ecstatic to see the bridge opened.
“We appreciate the patience that has been shown and we encourage everyone to come and support the local businesses,” she said.
“This bridge will be well used and well appreciated.
“We are very pleased with the outcome.”
Chairman of roads and water councillor Phil Pidgeon said it was great to see so many excited people at the opening.
“People are already happy,” he said.
“It’s a great outcome that the bridge is opened and the project is finished.”
Member for Wright Scott Buchholz said any type of infrastructure that helps communities was always welcomed.
“This particular bridge will have an immediate impact on the community and businesses,” he said.
“Businesses have suffered with the construction phase and now the infrastructure is new and improved, with the extra lane, we hope to see business trends resume.
“We have more traffic on the Mount Lindesay Highway and we can return to traditional flows.”
Officer in Charge Peter Waugh said the extra turning lane was a great improvement.
“We hope this lets traffic flows ease,” he said.
“It’s great to see the bridge open.”
The project was jointly funded from Logan City Council’s 2015/2016 Capital Roadworks and Drainage program and the Australian Government’s Bridges Renewal Programmme.
