Gumms Lane Causeway Replacement

In August 2020, a low-lying timber causeway on Gumms Lane sustained substantial structural damage during major flooding.

Following inspection, Queanbeyan Palareng Regional Council were forced to close the causeway due to the associated structural damage. A temporary sidetrack was constructed to provide access for affected residents whilst funding was acquired.

In 2020, Reliance Engineering Services were engaged by Queanbeyan Palerang Regional Council to provide engineering and project superintendency services throughout the stages of project development and delivery. The detailed engineering design was completed by Fairlight Consulting Engineers.

The project was funded under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangement (DRFA) and the scope of works included:

• Pre construction investigations including survey and geotechnical investigations

• Detailed Engineering Design

• Site Establishment

• Implementation of Erosion and Sediment Controls

• Demolition of timber causeway

• Subgrade preparation

• Construction of insitu box culvert structure

• Installation of rock scour protection

• Reconstruction of road approaches

Reliance Engineering provided the following scope of services:

• Consulted with the Department of Primary Industries to define NSW Fisheries design expectations and requirements for the proposed culvert upgrade

• Liaised with an environmental consultant to complete a Review of Environmental Factors and Aquatic Biodiversity Assessment

• Prepared and obtained environmental clearances for proposed works

• Consulted with Fairlight Consulting Engineers to prepare detailed engineering drawings for construction

• Tender preparation and evaluation

• Contract Administration

• Project Superintendency

• Monitoring and enforcing Contractor compliance

The new design finished level is 1.85m higher than the previous structure, significantly improving local connectivity during adverse weather conditions. Additionally, the new design provides minimal maintenance costs, improves safety and provides lost-lasting benefits for Council and local residents.

The project was successfully completed by HD Civil Pty Ltd and commissioned for opening in March 2023.