Corrugation issues lead to repairs on bypass

THE issue of asphalt corrugation on the viaduct section of the Toowoomba bypass was raised at a Queensland parliament sitting last week.

Member for Toowoomba North Trevor Watts questioned the Minister for Transport and Main Roads about the structural integrity of the bypass after surface damage caused concern.

He asked the minister to advise on what caused damage to the section and what repairs had been planned.

Minister for Transport and Main roads Mark Bailey said the minor corrugations had been caused by the surface of the concrete below the asphalt.

He said the surface had not been rough enough to prevent the slight movement of the asphalt under heavy loads.

“The issue is isolated to the asphalt and the bridge deck surface and is not related in any way to the structural integrity of the viaduct,” Mr Bailey said.

“The asphalt surfacing of the eastbound slow lane was removed and the texture of the deck enhanced, followed by placement of a new asphalt surface by Nexus.

“These repair works are now completed and will be monitored for performance and, if successful, the same treatment will be adopted on the remaining three lanes of the viaduct.”

Mr Bailey said there would be no change to toll prices during repairs.

“As observed during the temporary repairs, there has been minimal impact on travel times as a result of lane closure for the repair works,” he said.

“Toll charges will remain the same while the repairs are being undertaken.”