Bridge moves slowly

By Mara Pattison-
Despite rumours circulating about the delays being from the thefts of the steel from the bridge, VicRoads said there had been one minor theft that had not affected the progress.
The Warburton Rail Trail Bridge over Maroondah Highway is expected to be open in July.
VicRoads metro-south east regional director Duncan Elliot said it was wet weather and issues with placing the concrete deck, painting the structure, and joining the three steel sections, that resulted in project delays.
“Works underway to finish the bridge involve steel fabrication on the bridge spans and handrails, completing the lighting, and finishing the approach pathways,” he said.
Mr Elliot said although the contractor had advised VicRoads of a minor theft at the site some time ago, “this has not affected the progress of the construction”.
Cyclists and pedestrians have been hanging out for the new bridge for months, after the initial excitement when hundreds of people gathered on a cold January night to watch the bridge being lifted into place near Queen Road.
The 143-tonne bridge will link Lilydale train station with the Mount Evelyn township for safe and easy access across the busy highway.
Work began on the $3.5 million project last October, with VicRoads contributing $2 million, Parks Victoria $1.3 million and Yarra Ranges Council $200,000.