![GOING: The Yarrawonga-Mulwala bridge. GOING: The Yarrawonga-Mulwala bridge.](/images/transform/v1/crop/frm/u2TKvX7hYXGMrKgrD4ZiFN/0a9ee7a1-d5af-4f9d-b6f2-de214736b545.jpg/r0_392_4896_2851_w1200_h678_fmax.jpg)
THE preferred route for the new Yarrawonga-Mulwala bridge has finally been agreed upon.
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The grey route running next to the existing bridge has received support from the Victorian and NSW governments.
But there will still be a significant battle to complete planning, gain funding and construct the bridge ahead of the planned weir road closure in 2020.
Rough estimates put the cost at $90 million, which would be shared by both states.
It’s likely the federal government would be lobbied for money.
Corowa mayor Paul Miegel encouraged the community to come onboard and support the decision, which has been years in the making.
“It’s going to be a tight timeframe,” he said.
“We look forward to working with Moira Shire to get the bridge built.
“There will be some people who will be disappointed, but I hope everyone looks at it in a positive way.
“With this decision comes certainty for the future and the opportunity for both communities to move forward.”
The bridge would connect Melbourne Street in Mulwala and Belmore Street in Yarrawonga, and the Murray Valley Highway.
The existing Mulwala bridge, built in 1924, would be removed.
VicRoads regional director Bryan Sherritt said modelling showed 98 per cent of traffic on the bridge would be people travelling between the two towns.
“The major drawbacks of the green option were less connection points to Belmore Street,” he said.
“This really is a very important decision for Yarrawonga and Mulwala.
“It provides a level of certainty moving into the future.”
Retaining the current bridge would cost $5 million over 10 years, he said.
Mulwala Progress Association chairman Rob Purtle said people in both towns wouldn't take the decision lying down.
“Hopefully the Moira Shire will appeal the decision to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal,” he said.
"We're disappointed with the Corowa Shire and the lack of support for people in their community.
“I can't understand why VicRoads has gone with (this option).”
Mr Purtle said the alternative option would not require land or housing acquisition.
Moira Shire did not return calls.