The Bridge ‘Pile On’ Begins for the Y-Interchange
Work has begun on the bridge piling for the innovative Y-interchange at the point where the Bunbury Outer Ring Road (BORR) meets Bussell Highway.
Published: 15 August 2023, Updated: 16 August 2023
Actually, that headline might be a bit misleading because piling has nothing to do with “piling on” anything but is actually about piling under.
Those long, slender and – often – cylindrical structures that support the bridge structure from below are called piles and they are driven into the ground to provide much needed foundational structural integrity for the bridge.
That is why we are so excited to announce that the bridge piling at the interchange has now begun. It means that this innovatively designed structure, which is in the shape of a Y, is about to take form.
This interchange is also a particularly important part of the project as it is the point where BORR and Bussell Highway meet each other. Why the Y design though?
There are actually a couple of really cool reasons. For starters, the Y shape allows traffic to flow more freely. If you are driving down to the South West region on holiday, returning home after a visit to the metro area or carrying goods on the back of your truck, you will certainly enjoy the smoother, faster route.
Secondly, with a unique Y-interchange, fewer retaining walls are needed. This means less impact on adjacent properties and the local landscape in general.
Who would have thought a Y could really be the X-factor BORR needed!
The bridge piling being craned securely and safely into place.