Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) is set to spend $58 million on a works package to replace three existing rail bridges in Muswellbrook.
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ARTC Group Executive Hunter Valley Wayne Johnson said the bridges would be replaced due to their age and condition and the upgrades are essential to operating a safe and reliable rail network.
"The Hunter River and Muscle Creek bridges were built in 1912 and the Bridge Street bridge was built in 1994", Mr Johnson said.
"All three rail bridges are coming to the end of their structural lifespan, so in conjunction with our customers, we're funding the replacement of the Muswellbrook bridges to maintain the network's safety and reliability."
Mr Johnson said the project would provide a solid economic boost for the Muswellbrook area, with up to 200 people working on it at various stages over the next two years.
"We are proud to deliver this construction project that will help jumpstart the economy given the current financial environment. Stimulating the economy during these difficult times is absolutely critical," he said.
Mr Johnson said ARTC is consulting the community through the Muswellbrook Council on the appearance of one of the bridges.
"We encourage locals to have their say about the faade of the Bridge Street bridge and we will be sharing information on our website in coming weeks," he said.
Mr Johnson assured residents and the community that ARTC is focused on delivering the maintenance works in a way that adheres to current Covid-19 health advice that is safe for the community and the employees involved.
ARTC has engaged Laing O'Rourke as the principal contractor for detailed design and construction and will commence next month and continue until June 2022.
