Long a headache for drivers, particularly those behind the wheels of buses and trucks, the Forest Road Bridge passes over railway lines at the southern end of Peisley Street. It is a key feeder route for people heading to the Orange Health Service and Cadia Mine.

The federal government's $2 million contribution is part of its Bridges Renewal Program. It will be added to a $1.25 million injection from the state government's Restart NSW program. Council is seeking another NSW government contribution of $1.543 million, and will also use its own funds.

"The duplication will make a huge difference to the safety of pedestrians, cyclists and motorists," said federal MP Andrew Gee. "This bridge gets heavy use including by mine workers, the health workforce at the hospital, and families heading out to Jack Brabham Park for sport."

Mayor Reg Kidd said the project should go out to tender early in 2021, "with construction to begin once the latest section of the Southern Feeder Road has been completed".

Council's technical services director Ian Greenham said the job was not without challenges, particularly building over a fork in the rail lines.

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