THE estimated cost of a replacement for the Yarrawonga-Mulwala bridge has blown out to $80 million.
Initially priced at $30 million, the bridge across Lake Mulwala linking the two tourist towns is due to be completed by 2020.
No level of government has committed funding but the project could be included in the federal budget released in May.
Corowa Council was told yesterday under the latest project plan, the federal government would provide $40 million and NSW and Victoria $20 million each.
Shire environmental and planning director Bob Parr revealed the sums yesterday when he reported the project was included in the draft NSW freight and ports strategy now on public display.
The bridge would be the second biggest bridge project undertaken in the shire following the construction of the $22 million Federation Bridge over the Murray River, opened in 2005.
“The date 2020 will approach at a rate of knots,” Mr Parr said.
“We’ve got to wait and see what is in the federal budget.”
The bridge is competing for funds with other projects at Echuca-Moama and Swan Hill.
Three route options are being considered.
Corowa Council supports one it believes would cause the least disruption on the Mulwala side.
But Cr Daryl Davey said another option closest to the weir wall was favoured, even though it would cause a huge impact on residents to Irvine Parade, Yarrawonga .
“I know people in Yarrawonga who live in Irvine Parade are quite anxious and have had their lives put on hold,” Cr Davey said.
“I wouldn’t like to live in Irvine Parade because that is where it is going.
“Those people who have built new homes or bought houses in the past five to 10 years might as well pack up and leave.”
