Work begins on $7.6m bridge replacement as 15km detour announced

Work has begun on a $7.6 million bridge replacement that aims to improve road safety in Lake Macquarie's rapidly growing north-west.

The Australian government has contributed $5 million towards the project, which will replace Bridge 263 on Racecourse Road in Teralba.

Lake Macquarie City Council contributed $2.6 million.

The previous bridge, just north of Teralba Bowling Club, was deemed to be in poor structural condition.

Under the plan a new bridge will be built to safely support heavy vehicles, provide unrestricted two-way traffic flow and improve long-term road safety.

A new shared pathway, including a boardwalk across the creek and associated roadworks, will also be built to improve safety at the Blair Street and York Street intersection.

The bridge will be closed for two weeks from October 19 while a temporary single-lane crossing is built.

Motorists wanting to travel south to Teralba from the northern end of Racecourse Road and The Weir Road and Griffen Road will need to travel via a 15-kilometre detour through Barnsley during the two-week closure.

The single-lane crossing will allow vehicles to keep using the road for the duration of the project, which is expected to be completed by August 2027.

Federal Member for the Hunter Dan Repacholi said the funding was part of the government's Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program.

"It's fantastic to see these upgrades underway, creating a safer and stronger route for local commuters and freight operators," Mr Repacholi said.

"Nothing is more important than ensuring all Australians get home safely. That's why our government is investing in projects like the Teralba bridge replacement that will serve the region well into the future."

Lake Macquarie mayor Adam Shultz welcomed the start of construction.

"Replacing ageing transport infrastructure is an important part of keeping our community safe on the roads," Cr Shultz said.

"As bridges reach end of service life, it's crucial we replace them with modern solutions that will stand the test of time."