Federal Member for Lyne Dr David Gillespie today announced funding of $150,000 towards the $300,000 project to be undertaken by Greater Taree City Council.

"Today I welcome the much-needed upgrade to this important piece of local infrastructure under the Australian Government's new $300 million Bridges Renewal Programme," Dr Gillespie said.

"The injection of Federal funding to upgrade Potts Bridge will make using Comboyne Road safer and more reliable, while also being a huge fillip for freight providing major benefits for the community and the region.

"In particular, this project will improve road access for local traffic and increase efficiency on the local road network, which will be a relief to all," Dr Gillespie said.

"The Mid-North Coast is a vibrant region and our Government is investing in its continued growth as part of our $50-billion infrastructure package including the Pacific Highway upgrade, the Bucketts Way upgrade, the Greater Taree Roads & Bridges programme, Roads to Recovery programme and the Federal Financial Assistance Grants scheme which are seeing the rollout of important infrastructure in our region.

"Councils will play a significant role in managing projects throughout our various infrastructure programmes, ensuring local roads and bridges can continue to contribute to productivity and community access."

Today, the Australian Government has committed $28.5 million under Round One of the programme, with a total commitment of $300 million over five years from 2014-15 for the entire programme.